Caramelized Onion and Arugula Pasta

There is much debate about whether an Italian restaurant can be a 4-star dining experience. Sure, there are complicated Italian dishes that take time and effort to prepare but many of the best dishes, are the simple pasta dishes. Fresh pasta is made with just a few ingredients and many pasta sauces are a conglomeration of what is on hand in the house. It isn't rocket science. But, isn't the amazing flavors and the simplicity of a recipe worthy of a 4-star ranking? We think so. Sometimes some of our most favorite dishes are the ones that combine a few, well chosen ingredients to make one masterful final dish. This time around we slowly caramelized onions until almost sugary and then tossed them with hot pasta, red pepper flakes and arugula. Finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, this dish was, dare we say it, 5 stars. Italian food may be rustic but that doesn't make it taste any less delicious than a 4-star meal.

Caramelized Onion and Arugula Pasta

2 Tbsp olive oil,divided
1 large yellow onion, sliced root to root
Salt
4 oz penne
1 cup arugula
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Freshly grated Parmesan, to taste

Heat a cast iron skillet with lid, or heavy bottom skillet with lid over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil to the pan and add the onion; lower heat to medium low. Sprinkle in a generous pinch of salt, stir and cover with the lid. Let sit for 10 minutes; stir and let sit another 10 minutes. Stir onions again and let cook for 5 minutes. Continue until desired caramelization is reached.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil; salt generously. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Scoop pasta out of the water and add to the onions. Stir in the arugula and season with the red pepper flakes. Grate on the Parmesan and Drizzle with remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Divide among two bowls and top with more cheese, if desired

Yields 2 servings

The prettiest dinner in town!