Imagine a dish that perfectly marries the sweet, rich flavors of caramelized onions and apples with the comforting texture of pasta—all while being vegan and gluten-free! This Caramelized Onion Apple Pasta with Sage is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and easy meal that can be prepared in just 40 minutes. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this delightful Italian-inspired recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let's dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz gluten-free pasta
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 1 apple, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all ingredients: slice onions thinly, dice apple into small cubes, chop fresh sage, and measure out all other ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, allowing them to caramelize and turn golden brown. This process will take approximately 15-20 minutes.
- While onions are caramelizing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gluten-free pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Once onions are deeply golden and soft, add diced apple to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until apple is slightly softened but still retains some texture.
- Sprinkle chopped sage into the onion and apple mixture, stirring to distribute evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain cooked pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add pasta directly to the skillet with caramelized onions and apples.
- If using, sprinkle nutritional yeast over the pasta and gently toss everything together. Use reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or sage as desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Patience is Key: When caramelizing the onions, take your time! Cooking them slowly over medium-low heat allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in a deeper flavor and beautiful golden color. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Choose the Right Apple: Opt for a firm apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during cooking and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the onions.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining! This starchy water is excellent for creating a silky sauce that helps bind the ingredients together.
- Experiment with Herbs: While sage adds a lovely aromatic touch, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Make it Your Own: This recipe is versatile—add in seasonal vegetables or a sprinkle of your favorite vegan cheese to customize it to your taste.
- Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve this dish immediately after tossing everything together. The flavors meld beautifully when enjoyed fresh from the skillet!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
