Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound fioreta pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for caramelizing onions
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cook the fioreta pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add the butter, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet with the onions. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and syrupy.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the caramelized onions and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top the pasta with crumbled goat cheese and serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
- N/A
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 480
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fioreta pasta can be substituted with any other short pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli.
- Olive oil can be substituted with any other cooking oil.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
- Balsamic vinegar can be substituted with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Goat cheese can be substituted with feta or blue cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the pasta for a protein boost.
- Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the pasta for extra flavor.
- Use caramelized garlic instead of onions for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Be patient when caramelizing the onions - it takes time to get them golden brown and sweet.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the onions from sticking and burning.
- Crumble the goat cheese over the pasta just before serving to prevent it from melting too much.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pasta in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing.
- Garnish with additional crumbled goat cheese and chopped fresh herbs.
Garnishes:
- Crumbled goat cheese
- Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil
Pairings:
- Serve with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted asparagus
- Grilled zucchini
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pasta is too dry, add a splash of pasta water or olive oil to loosen it up.
- If the onions are burning, turn down the heat and add a splash of water to the skillet.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the pasta to al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
- Fioreta pasta is a short, twisted pasta shape that originated in Italy.
- Caramelized onions have been used in cooking for centuries and are a staple in many cuisines around the world.
Flavor profiles:
- The caramelized onions add sweetness and depth of flavor to the pasta, while the goat cheese adds tanginess and creaminess.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pasta with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
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