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Creamy Caramelized Onion Pasta Recipe


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3.9 from 43 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This Creamy Caramelized Onion Pasta is a rich and flavorful vegan dish featuring sweet, slow-cooked onions and a luscious cashew cream sauce. Perfectly cooked fettuccine is tossed in a decadent, dairy-free sauce made from soaked cashews, delivering a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.


Ingredients

Caramelized Onions

  • 2 large onions
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar

Pasta

  • 4.5 ounces dry fettuccine pasta

Cashew Cream Sauce

  • 3/4 cup raw cashews (soaked overnight)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast


Instructions

  1. Slice the onions: Peel the onions and slice them into 1/8-inch thick (3 mm) slices to ensure even caramelization.
  2. Sauté the onions: Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring regularly, until the onions turn a light golden brown.
  3. Caramelize: Add 1/4 teaspoon salt and sugar to the skillet, then continue to sauté the onions for another 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the onions caramelize and develop a deep golden brown color.
  4. Deglaze the skillet: Add 2 tablespoons of water to the hot skillet and stir to loosen any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds extra flavor. Remove from heat and keep the onions in the skillet.
  5. Prepare the cashew cream: Drain soaked cashews and place them in a blender. Add 1/2 cup water, white vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and nutritional yeast. Blend on high speed for 20-30 seconds until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  6. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and transfer it to the skillet with the caramelized onions.
  7. Combine pasta and cream: Pour the cashew cream into the skillet with pasta and onions. Toss gently with tongs or spatulas to coat the pasta evenly. Return skillet to medium heat and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add water if the sauce is too thick to achieve desired consistency.
  8. Serve: Taste and adjust the salt if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
  9. Storage: Leftovers can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Notes

  • Soaking cashews overnight helps achieve a smooth and creamy sauce; if short on time, soak in hot water for at least 1 hour.
  • Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.
  • Stir onions frequently during caramelization to prevent burning and promote even browning.
  • If you prefer a less sweet onion flavor, reduce the sugar amount.
  • Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more water as needed during final cooking.
  • This recipe is vegan, dairy-free, and can be gluten-free if using gluten-free pasta.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 28 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian