If you’re searching for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this mouthwatering Chili Oil Pasta. This vegetarian dish combines the simplicity of pasta with the bold, aromatic flavors of garlic, green onions, and chili oil to create a meal that will leave your taste buds tingling and your stomach satisfied. With a simple tweak, it can also be made entirely vegan, making it a versatile option for various dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time but still want a hearty meal.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of chili oil, garlic, and green onions creates a rich and aromatic sauce that elevates simple pasta to a gourmet experience.
- Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly: By substituting butter with a plant-based alternative and using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese, this dish becomes entirely vegan without compromising on taste.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili oil or incorporating additional vegetables and proteins to suit your preferences.
Ingredients:
- ½ lb pasta of choice (spaghetti or linguini works well)
- 2 tbsp butter (use a plant-based butter substitute for a vegan option)
- 1 tbsp oil (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (separate the white and green parts)
- 6 cloves garlic, sliced
- 2 tbsp chili oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetarian oyster sauce
- Parmesan cheese (optional, or replace with nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
Directions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pan, heat the butter and oil over medium-high heat until the butter has melted and starts to bubble.
- Add the white parts of the chopped green onions and the sliced garlic to the pan.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onions soften slightly. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
3. Create the Sauce:
- Stir in the chili oil, soy sauce, and vegetarian oyster sauce into the pan.
- Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to combine all the flavors.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce.
- Toss the pasta thoroughly to ensure each strand is coated with the sauce.
- Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, ⅛ cup at a time, stirring after each addition until you achieve your desired sauce consistency. You may not need the entire cup.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the pan from heat and garnish the pasta with the green parts of the chopped green onions.
- Serve hot, topped with a generous amount of Parmesan cheese if desired. For a vegan option, sprinkle nutritional yeast over the pasta for a cheesy flavor.
Tips and Variations
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili oil. Alternatively, if you love heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Adding Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the garlic and onions until tender.
- Protein Boost: For added protein, incorporate tofu or tempeh. Cut them into small cubes and sauté until golden before adding the aromatics.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Conclusion
This Chili Oil Pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and character. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
The harmonious blend of spicy, savory, and aromatic elements makes this pasta a standout meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. So the next time you’re in the mood for something comforting yet exciting, give this Chili Oil Pasta a try and let it add a fiery twist to your dinner table.
Enjoy your meal!