Name: Creamy Onion Tomato Pasta: 7 Steps to Comforting Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 large onions (sliced); 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 3 cloves of garlic (minced); 9 oz pasta (of choice); 2 cups cherry tomatoes; 2 Tbsp tomato paste; 3/4 cup dairy-free milk; 2 oz vegan parmesan cheese; 1-2 Tbsp chili oil; Reserved pasta water (to thin the sauce); Fresh parsley (chopped)

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Onion Tomato Pasta is a delightful Italian dish that brings together the sweetness of onions and the freshness of tomatoes. This creamy pasta with chili oil is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners. Imagine a bowl filled with rich, cheesy goodness, where each bite delivers a mix of savory and slightly spicy flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Onion Tomato Pasta

This Onion Tomato Pasta is a culinary delight that you’ll want to make time and again. First, it’s a simple and quick meal, ideal for busy weeknights. Second, it brings together healthy ingredients, making it a great vegetarian onion tomato pasta option. Third, the creamy sauce is incredibly satisfying, perfect for those comfort food cravings. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic way to use up pantry staples, like pasta and tomatoes. With only a handful of ingredients, including the essential onion tomato pasta ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dinner in no time. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal.

Ingredients for Onion Tomato Pasta

Gather these items:

3 large onions (sliced)
2 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cumin
3 cloves of garlic (minced)
9 oz pasta (of choice)
2 cups cherry tomatoes
2 Tbsp tomato paste

3/4 cup dairy-free milk
2 oz vegan parmesan cheese
1-2 Tbsp chili oil
Reserved pasta water (to thin the sauce)
Fresh parsley (chopped)

How to Make Onion Tomato Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: First, peel and thinly slice the onions while you heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté the onions, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and cumin for about 5 minutes, until the onions begin to soften.
Step 3: Mince the garlic, then add it to the skillet with ½ cup water. Cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden. Add a splash of water (or low-sodium broth) as needed to prevent burning the onions.

Step 4: Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions minus 1-2 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 5: Add the tomatoes and cook for a few minutes, then add the tomato paste and chili oil.
Step 6: Stir in the dairy-free milk and parmesan and simmer until the sauce thickens (a few minutes). Add reserved pasta water if it becomes too thick.
Step 7: Lightly mash a few tomatoes, then add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 8: Serve the tomato and onion pasta, optionally garnished with chopped parsley, a drizzle of chili oil, and extra parmesan. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Onion Tomato Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh cherry tomatoes for better flavor.
Don’t rush the onion cooking process; caramelizing them adds depth.
For a healthier option, consider using whole-grain pasta.
Experiment with different spices to personalize the flavor.

This recipe works well as a one-pot onion tomato pasta recipe if you want to reduce cleanup.

Best Ways to Serve Onion Tomato Pasta

Here are some delightful serving ideas:

Pair it with garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serve it alongside a fresh salad for extra crunch.
Top with additional vegan parmesan for an extra cheesy experience.

How to Store and Reheat Onion Tomato Pasta

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. This makes for a quick quick onion tomato pasta meal the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About Onion Tomato Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Onion Tomato Pasta?

The key to perfect onion tomato spaghetti lies in the caramelization of the onions. The longer you cook them, the sweeter and richer the flavor becomes, enhancing your tomato and onion pasta dish.

Can I make Onion Tomato Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the onion and tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Onion Tomato Pasta?

One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Always cook it al dente to avoid a mushy texture. Also, be careful not to burn the onions; keep an eye on them while caramelizing.

Variations of Onion Tomato Pasta You Can Try

Consider these tasty variations:

Add spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients, perfect for healthy onion tomato pasta options.
Incorporate roasted red peppers for added sweetness and flavor.
Try a creamy version with coconut milk for a different take on creamy onion tomato pasta variations.

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