Angel Hair Pasta With Scallops and Arugula

🍽️ Angel Hair Pasta With Scallops and Arugula 🍽️

What is it?
Angel Hair Pasta With Scallops and Arugula is a delightful and elegant Italian-inspired pasta dish. It combines delicate angel hair pasta with tender seared scallops and peppery arugula, all brought together by a flavorful sauce typically made with ingredients like garlic, white wine, lemon, and butter. This dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among seafood and pasta lovers.

History:
The exact origin of this dish is not well-documented, but it is part of the broader tradition of Italian pasta dishes featuring seafood. Italian cuisine has a rich history of combining fresh seafood with pasta, and variations of this dish can be found in coastal regions of Italy. It reflects the Italian emphasis on using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create harmonious and delicious meals.

Components:

• Angel Hair Pasta: A thin pasta variety resembling fine strands of hair, known for its delicate texture and quick cooking time.
• Scallops: Tender, sweet, and succulent mollusks, often seared to perfection.
• Arugula: A peppery and slightly bitter leafy green that adds a vibrant, fresh element to the dish.
• Sauce: The sauce typically includes ingredients like garlic, white wine, lemon juice, butter, olive oil, and sometimes red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. It brings all the elements together with a rich and tangy flavor.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients, including angel hair pasta, scallops, arugula, garlic, white wine, lemon juice, butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

2. Cook Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the angel hair pasta until it’s al dente (usually 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.

3. Sear Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Heat a pan with olive oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden crust. Remove the scallops from the pan and set aside.

4. Make Sauce: In the same pan, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté briefly. Pour in white wine and lemon juice, and let it simmer and reduce for a few minutes. Stir in butter until it melts and forms a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine: Return the cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Add the seared scallops and arugula, gently tossing until the arugula wilts slightly.

6. Serve: Plate the Angel Hair Pasta With Scallops and Arugula, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare this dish is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a relatively quick and impressive option for a special meal or dinner party.

Enjoy this delightful and flavorful Angel Hair Pasta With Scallops and Arugula! 🍝🍽️😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Angel Hair Pasta With Scallops and Arugula:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 400-500 calories
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-4 grams
• Sugars: 2-3 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
• Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams
• Cholesterol: 40-60 milligrams
• Sodium: 500-600 milligrams

Health Information:

1. Protein: This dish is a good source of high-quality protein from scallops. Protein is essential for muscle repair and overall health.

2. Carbohydrates: Angel hair pasta provides carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary source of energy. Opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

3. Dietary Fiber: While this dish may not be high in fiber, you can increase the fiber content by adding more vegetables or using whole wheat pasta. Fiber aids in digestion and helps you feel full.

4. Healthy Fats: The dish contains healthy fats from olive oil and scallops. These fats are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy.

5. Saturated Fat and Cholesterol: Be mindful of the butter and scallops’ saturated fat and cholesterol content. While they add flavor, it’s important to consume them in moderation, especially if you have specific dietary restrictions.

6. Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on the amount of salt used in the recipe. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider reducing the amount of added salt.

7. Balanced Meal: This dish offers a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Adding arugula provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

8. Portion Control: Pay attention to portion sizes to manage calorie intake. Smaller portions can be satisfying while helping you control your overall calorie consumption.

9. Variations: You can make this dish healthier by using whole grain pasta, reducing butter, or using alternatives like olive oil, and adding more vegetables for extra nutrients.

10. Enjoy in Moderation: While this dish can be a delicious and nutritious option, it’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Incorporate a variety of foods into your meals for a well-rounded nutrient intake.

Remember that the specific nutrition values may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient brands. Adjusting the recipe to fit your dietary preferences and needs can help you make it even more health-conscious.