๐ Angel Hair Pasta With Clams ๐
Angel Hair Pasta with Clams is a delightful Italian dish that combines delicate, thin pasta with fresh clams and a flavorful sauce. This dish is known for its light and seafood-infused taste, making it a popular choice among seafood enthusiasts. Let’s dive into its history, components, preparation steps, and estimated cooking time:
๐ History:
The origins of Angel Hair Pasta with Clams are deeply rooted in Italian cuisine, particularly from the coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. While there isn’t a specific documented history for this dish, it is part of the broader tradition of pasta dishes featuring seafood, which has been enjoyed along the Italian coastline for centuries.
๐ฝ๏ธ Components:
To prepare Angel Hair Pasta with Clams, you’ll need the following components:
- Angel hair pasta: A very thin pasta variety resembling fine strands of hair.
- Fresh clams: These should be clean, scrubbed, and checked for freshness.
- Garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory element to the sauce.
- Olive oil: Used for sautรฉing and flavor.
- White wine: Provides acidity and depth to the sauce.
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley): Used for garnish and flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: Optional, for a touch of heat.
- Salt and black pepper: For seasoning.
๐ฉโ๐ณ Preparation Steps:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Clams: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if desired, sautรฉ for a minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Clams: Add the cleaned clams to the skillet and pour in the white wine. Cover with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any clams that don’t open.
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Combine Pasta and Clams: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the clams. Stir gently to combine, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavors of the sauce.
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Season and Garnish: Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, typically chopped parsley, for a burst of color and freshness.
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Serve: Plate the Angel Hair Pasta with Clams in shallow bowls, ensuring that each serving has a generous portion of clams and sauce.
โฒ๏ธ Cooking Time:
The estimated time to prepare Angel Hair Pasta with Clams is approximately 30-40 minutes. This may vary depending on your experience in handling clams and the time it takes for them to open. The pasta itself cooks quickly, typically within 5-7 minutes.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delectable Italian seafood pasta dish, perfect for a special dinner or any occasion! ๐ฝ๏ธ๐๐๐ฎ๐น
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair Pasta with Clams:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350-450 kcal
- Protein: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 60-70g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-4g
- Sugars: 2-3g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Cholesterol: 30-40mg
- Sodium: 500-700mg
Health Information:
- Protein: The dish provides a moderate amount of protein, which is important for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Carbohydrates: Angel hair pasta is a source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.
- Dietary Fiber: While not high in fiber, it contributes to digestive health.
- Fat: The dish contains a relatively low amount of fat, especially if you use less olive oil.
- Saturated Fat: The saturated fat content is generally low, promoting heart health.
- Cholesterol: Clams are naturally low in cholesterol, and the dish contains a moderate amount.
- Sodium: Be mindful of the salt content, especially if you have high blood pressure; you can adjust it to your preference.
- Nutrient Balance: This dish offers a balance of macronutrients and can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.
- Seafood Benefits: The inclusion of clams adds essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on portion size, specific ingredients used, and cooking methods. Adjustments can be made to suit dietary preferences and restrictions.
