Gourmet Pasta with Caramelized Onions and Tangy Blue Cheese
Indulge in this gourmet pasta dish that perfectly marries the rich sweetness of caramelized onions with the bold, tangy flavors of blue cheese. Ideal for a cozy dinner with friends or a special family gathering, this recipe is simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor. The combination of al dente pasta, sautéed onions, and creamy blue cheese creates a unique culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression. Each bite is a delightful harmony of textures and tastes, making it a must-try for cheese enthusiasts and pasta lovers alike. Share this dish, and enjoy conversation around the table as the savory aroma fills your kitchen!
4
Servings
400
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pasta shells or chunky pasta
1 lb (uncooked)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
Chopped onions
6 cups (raw)
Salt
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Vegetable broth or water
1/2 cup (for deglazing)
Crumpled blue cheese
1 cup (for topping)
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2
In a 12-14 inch skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions, salt, and black pepper.
3
Sauté the onions, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
4
When the onions are caramelized, pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and scrape the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits stuck to the surface. Reduce the heat and keep warm until the pasta is ready.
5
Combine the drained pasta with the caramelized onion mixture and add the crumbled blue cheese, stirring gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
6
If the pasta looks dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until the desired consistency is reached.
7
Serve hot, garnished with additional crumbled blue cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
8.75g
Fat
62.5g
Carbs
12.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of this pasta dish?
This dish balances the rich sweetness of caramelized onions with the bold, tangy flavor of blue cheese.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What type of pasta should I use?
Pasta shells or any chunky pasta shape are recommended for this recipe.
How long does it take to caramelize the onions?
It takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes of sautéing to reach a golden brown caramelized state.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as you use vegetable broth or water for deglazing.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 400 calories per serving.
What is the purpose of reserving pasta water?
The reserved pasta water is used to adjust the consistency and moisture of the pasta if it looks too dry.
Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, water can be used for deglazing the pan if vegetable broth is not available.
How much olive oil is needed for sautéing?
You will need 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
How many onions does the recipe call for?
The recipe requires 6 cups of chopped raw onions.
How do I prevent the onions from burning?
Stir the onions occasionally and adjust the heat as necessary while they caramelize.
What is deglazing in this context?
Deglazing involves pouring liquid into the pan to scrape up and release the flavorful bits stuck to the surface.
How much blue cheese is included in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 cup of crumbled blue cheese.
Can I add more protein to the dish?
Yes, you can easily add grilled chicken or sliced beef to this pasta.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is a savory and tangy dish without spicy heat.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this pasta recipe?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the blue cheese and pasta may degrade.
What sides go well with this pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread complements the rich flavors of this dish.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the shells with your preferred gluten-free chunky pasta.
What size skillet is best for this recipe?
A 12-14 inch skillet is recommended for cooking the 6 cups of chopped onions.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving contains 12.5 grams of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 8.75 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving has 62.5 grams of carbohydrates.
How should the onions be prepared before cooking?
The onions should be chopped while raw before being added to the hot oil.
How do I garnish the final dish?
Serve the pasta hot and garnish it with additional crumbled blue cheese if desired.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, butter can be used for sautéing to provide a different depth of flavor.
What does 'al dente' mean for the pasta?
Al dente means the pasta should be cooked so that it is still firm to the bite.
Can this be made vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the blue cheese with a dairy-free blue cheese alternative.
Is this dish suitable for a special occasion?
Yes, it is a gourmet-style recipe perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings.
What is the weight of the pasta required?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of uncooked pasta shells.