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Authentic Spaghetti alla Friggione (Caramelized Onion Tomato Pasta)

makepurethyheart
Learn how to make authentic Spaghetti alla Friggione with slow-caramelized onions, garlic, olive oil, and marinara. This easy vegan Italian pasta is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 485 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 16 ounces spaghetti
  • Salt for pasta water

Friggione Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 large sweet onions thinly sliced
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon coconut sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh basil
  • Vegan Parmesan
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Cracked black pepper

Instructions
 

Step 1: Slowly Caramelize the Onions

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they're soft, golden, and jammy. Stir in the coconut sugar during the last few minutes to deepen their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

  • Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the seasonings bloom in the olive oil before pouring in the marinara sauce. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

  • Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in generously salted boiling water until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

  • Transfer the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the Friggione sauce. Add the reserved pasta water and toss until the sauce evenly coats every strand. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  • Serve immediately with fresh basil, vegan Parmesan, cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Pair with warm crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Notes

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 485 kcal
  • Protein: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 74 g
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Sugar: 11 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg