This Miso Chili Oil Pasta is a must-try! A simple, umami-rich dish with garlic, chili oil, and miso. Ready in minutes and perfect for any night.

I’m not a big fusion person, EXCEPT when it comes to noodles and pastas! In my mind it makes sense that noodles and pastas should be interchangeable. This Miso Chili Oil Pasta is easy and delicious, and also incredibly versatile! Perfect for those busy days when you crave something comforting but exciting. With minimal ingredients and a simple process, this pasta will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a speedy yet satisfying meal.
Flavour Explosion: The umami-rich miso pairs beautifully with the spicy chili oil, creating a unique and mouthwatering taste.
Minimal Ingredients: Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Comfort Food: It’s the perfect comfort dish that feels indulgent without the guilt.

Key Ingredients for Miso Chili Oil Pasta

Pasta: Use your favourite type; I love using short pastas such as fusili or farfalle.
Miso Paste: Adds a rich, savoury depth to the sauce. I recommend using white or yellow miso.
Chili Oil: Brings the heat and an aromatic quality to the dish. If you want to keep this heat free however (for example, serving children or those with less adventurous tastebuds), you can omit this. Instead of chili oil, replace with butter – trust me, this is equally good!
Garlic: For that essential aromatic base.
Parmesan: Parmesan not only serves as seasoning (umami over umami = umami explosion!), but it will add an extra creamy and thickening layer to the pasta.
Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: For garnish and an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Absolutely no salt is needed for this recipe; miso, parmesan and the pasta water all have sodium in it. Chilli oil will usually have salt too!

Key Steps to Making Miso Chili Oil Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add 2 servings of penne (or your chosen pasta) and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of chili oil over medium heat.
Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of miso paste, mixing well to combine.
If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce.
Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and combined.

4. Garnish and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving bowls.
Top with finely chopped spring onions and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve

This Miso Chili Oil Pasta is best served hot, straight from the pan.

It’s perfect on its own for a quick lunch or dinner, but you can also elevate it by adding some protein like grilled or pan-fried chicken, salmon, shrimp, or tofu. For some protein marinade ideas, check out these posts:

Complete the meal by adding steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrot, cauliflower or pumpkin.

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