Caramelized Onion and Garlic Pasta

By june

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 8 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
• 1 pkg (16 oz) uncooked angel hair pasta
• 9 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
• 2/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp coarsely ground pepper
• Fresh basil leaves, optional

Preparation

Step 1

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add the onions, pepper flakes and salt; sauté until onions are tender. Stir in garlic. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until the onions are deep golden brown.
Add the grape tomatoes, vinegar and 2 tbsp oil to the skillet. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain pasta; toss with onion mixture.
Drizzle with remaining olive oil. Sprinkle with bacon, Parmesan cheese and pepper, and heat through. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.