Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Spicy Shallot Pasta with caramelized shallots, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes, tossed in a rich tomato paste sauce and finished with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting vegetarian weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
Sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 large shallots, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for richness)
Garnishes
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Caramelize the shallots: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn deeply golden and caramelized, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes: Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Incorporate tomato paste: Add the tomato paste to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often until the paste darkens slightly, which helps develop a rich flavor.
- Create the sauce: Pour in the reserved pasta water and bring the mixture to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat all strands with the flavorful sauce.
- Finish with butter and serve: Stir in the unsalted butter if using, for extra richness. Serve immediately topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil, if desired.
Notes
- For extra protein, top with a fried or poached egg.
- You can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to increase the vegetable content and bulk up the dish.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
