Description
Diane Kochilas’ Pasta With Yogurt & Caramelized Onions is a comforting Greek-inspired dish featuring silky fresh pasta tossed with a creamy yogurt sauce, topped with sweet, golden caramelized onions and sharp kefalotyri cheese. This simple yet elegant recipe balances rich umami flavors with creamy tang and sweetness, perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Onions and Pasta
- 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 cups coarsely chopped onions
- Sea salt, to taste
- 1 pound tagliatelle or other fresh pasta
For the Sauce and Topping
- 2 cups thick, strained Greek-style yogurt (see note)
- 1 cup coarsely grated kefalotyri cheese or pecorino Romano
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chopped onions. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently and seasoning with sea salt, until the onions become soft and turn golden brown, about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Cook the Pasta and Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: While onions cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until soft, not al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. In a separate bowl, combine the yogurt with 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water, whisking to create a smooth sauce. Add more pasta water as needed to adjust consistency. Drain the pasta and toss it thoroughly with the yogurt sauce.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the yogurt-coated pasta immediately. Generously sprinkle the grated kefalotyri cheese on top, then spoon the caramelized onions and their flavorful juices over the dish.
- Note on Yogurt: If your yogurt is not thick Greek-style yogurt, line a colander with cheesecloth and place it over a bowl or sink. Add the yogurt and allow it to drain for 2 hours before proceeding to ensure the right thickness. For an authentic touch, opt for sheep’s milk yogurt if available.
Notes
- Use thick Greek-style yogurt or strain regular yogurt for best creamy texture.
- Sheep’s milk yogurt adds a richer, more authentic flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta; it should be soft but not mushy.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the yogurt sauce consistency as needed.
- Caramelizing onions slowly is key for deep flavor and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Keywords: Greek pasta with yogurt, caramelized onions pasta, tagliatelle with yogurt sauce, Diane Kochilas pasta recipe, kefalotyri cheese pasta
