Pairing the comforting Caramelized Onion Pasta with Casey McQuiston's 'I Kissed Shara Wheeler' and a classic Glass of Chardonnay creates a delightful trifecta of flavors and experiences. The pasta's savory sweetness complements the light-hearted, romantic comedy style of McQuiston's novel, making it an ideal read while indulging in a cozy meal. The crispness of the Chardonnay enhances the caramelized onions' flavors, balancing out the dish with its refreshing acidity. This pairing promises an evening of enjoyment, offering the perfect backdrop for both culinary and literary adventures.
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a richer sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water or broth to deglaze the pan.
- Cook the Pasta: While the onions are caramelizing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Combine the Ingredients: Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the butter and let it melt into the onions.
- Create the Sauce: If using, add the heavy cream to the onion mixture, stirring to combine. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the onions and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately, with extra parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
I Kissed Shara Wheeler
From the author of 'Red, White & Royal Blue' comes a romantic comedy that captures the charm and drama of high school intrigue and unexpected love. When Chloe Green gets kissed by her biggest rival, Shara Wheeler, and Shara disappears afterwards, a humorous and heartfelt journey to uncover secrets ensues.
*INSTANT #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER* *INSTANT #1 INDIE BESTSELLER* *INSTANT USA TODAY BESTSELLER* From the New York Times bestselling author of One Last Stop and Red, White & Royal Blue comes a romantic comedy about chasing down what you want, only to find what you need… Chloe Green is so close to winning. After her moms moved her from SoCal to Alabama for high school, she’s spent the past four years dodging gossipy classmates and the puritanical administration of Willowgrove Christian Academy. The thing that’s kept her going: winning valedictorian. Her only rival: prom queen Shara Wheeler, the principal’s perfect progeny. But a month before graduation, Shara kisses Chloe and vanishes. On a furious hunt for answers, Chloe discovers she’s not the only one Shara kissed. There’s also Smith, Shara’s longtime quarterback sweetheart, and Rory, Shara’s bad boy neighbor with a crush. The three have nothing in common except Shara and the annoyingly cryptic notes she left behind, but together they must untangle Shara’s trail of clues and find her. It’ll be worth it, if Chloe can drag Shara back before graduation to beat her fair and square. Thrown into an unlikely alliance, chasing a ghost through parties, break-ins, puzzles, and secrets revealed on monogrammed stationery, Chloe starts to suspect there might be more to this small town than she thought. And maybe—probably not, but maybe—more to Shara, too. Fierce, funny, and frank, Casey McQuiston's I Kissed Shara Wheeler is about breaking the rules, getting messy, and finding love in unexpected places. "An unfettered joy to read." – The New York Times "McQuiston has done it again." – USA Today "You won't want to miss." – Good Housekeeping
Discussion Questions
- What role does setting play in the story, and how does it impact the characters' development?
- How do the characters' motivations evolve throughout the book?
- Discuss the various relationships depicted in the novel and how they reflect real-life challenges.
- In what ways does the book address identity and self-discovery?
- How does humor influence the tone of the story?
- What are the key themes, and how are they presented through the narrative?
- How does the book balance lighthearted romance with more serious issues?
- What are your thoughts on the resolution of the story?
- How do secondary characters contribute to the main storyline?
- What makes the romance in this story unique compared to other romance novels you have read?
Authors:
Casey McQuiston
ISBN: 9781250244459
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Published Date: 2022-05-03
ISBN: 9781250244459
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Published Date: 2022-05-03
Glass of Chardonnay
A classic glass of Chardonnay pairs seamlessly with the sweet and savory flavors of Caramelized Onion Pasta. The crispness and slight floral notes of this wine complement the rich onion flavor, adding a touch of elegance to your dinner.
Ingredients
- One bottle of quality Chardonnay
Instructions
- Chill the Chardonnay to about 50°F (10°C) for optimal flavor.
- Pour into a wine glass, swirl gently to release aromas.
- Savor slowly with your dish.