π€π Baby Shrimp Scampi and Angel Hair Pasta π€π
What is it?
Baby Shrimp Scampi and Angel Hair Pasta is a delicious Italian-inspired pasta dish that combines tender baby shrimp with a flavorful garlic and buttery sauce served over delicate angel hair pasta. It’s a mouthwatering and comforting meal that’s loved by many for its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
History:
Shrimp scampi itself has a long history, with its origins in Italian cuisine. The term “scampi” traditionally referred to a type of small lobster or langoustine commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass various dishes featuring shrimp or other seafood cooked in a garlicky, buttery sauce. This specific recipe is a variation popularized by celebrity chef Rachael Ray.
Components:
- Baby Shrimp: Small, succulent shrimp are the star of this dish. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, whichever is more convenient for you.
- Angel Hair Pasta: This thin pasta variety cooks quickly and complements the shrimp and sauce nicely.
- Garlic: Garlic is essential for the rich, aromatic flavor of the sauce.
- Butter: Butter adds a creamy, indulgent quality to the sauce.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is often used in conjunction with butter to prevent the butter from burning.
- White Wine: A dry white wine, such as Chardonnay, is typically used to deglaze the pan and infuse the dish with a subtle, fruity note.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the dish.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley is used for garnish and adds a touch of freshness to the final dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes for some kick.
Steps to Prepare:
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a combination of butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sautΓ© until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the baby shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute or two to cook off the alcohol.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you desire some heat.
- Toss the cooked angel hair pasta into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated.
- Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Preparation Time:
This dish is relatively quick to prepare, taking approximately 20-30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special meal with a touch of elegance. Enjoy! π½οΈπ
Sure, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Baby Shrimp Scampi and Angel Hair Pasta:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate values):
- Calories: 400-500 calories
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 1-2 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7-10 grams
- Cholesterol: 150-200 mg
- Sodium: 600-800 mg
- Potassium: 200-300 mg
- Vitamin A: 10-15% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 10-15% DV
- Calcium: 4-6% DV
- Iron: 15-20% DV
Health Information:
- Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of low-fat protein, making it a good choice for muscle growth and repair.
- Carbohydrates: The angel hair pasta in this dish provides energy in the form of carbohydrates.
- Dietary Fiber: While the dish may not be particularly high in fiber, you can increase its fiber content by adding vegetables like spinach or asparagus.
- Fats: The dish contains moderate amounts of fat, primarily from the butter and olive oil. These fats contribute to the rich flavor and texture of the scampi sauce.
- Saturated Fat: Be mindful of the saturated fat content, as butter is a significant source. While moderate saturated fat is acceptable in a balanced diet, it’s best to enjoy this dish in moderation.
- Cholesterol: Shrimp is relatively high in cholesterol, but it’s important to note that current dietary guidelines suggest that dietary cholesterol has less of an impact on blood cholesterol levels for most people than previously believed. However, if you have specific dietary concerns, consult with a healthcare professional.
- Sodium: The sodium content in this dish can vary depending on how much salt is added during cooking. To reduce sodium, you can use less salt or opt for low-sodium broth or butter substitutes.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The dish provides some vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Iron. The lemon juice and parsley contribute to these micronutrients.
Overall, Baby Shrimp Scampi and Angel Hair Pasta is a delicious meal that can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. To make it even healthier, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to increase your fiber and nutrient intake.
