Angel Hair Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce

🍝 Angel Hair Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce 🍅

Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tomato Sauce is a delightful Italian dish known for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. It’s a classic pasta recipe that combines thin and delicate angel hair pasta with a zesty, fresh tomato sauce. Here’s a detailed breakdown of this delicious dish:

📜 History:
The origins of pasta dishes like this one can be traced back to Italy, where pasta has been a staple for centuries. Fresh tomato sauces, on the other hand, became popular in Italian cuisine after the discovery of the New World in the late 15th century when tomatoes were introduced to Europe. The combination of pasta and tomatoes quickly became a beloved Italian tradition.

🥘 Components:

• Angel Hair Pasta: Also known as “capellini,” it is an extremely thin and delicate pasta, similar in appearance to strands of angel hair. It cooks quickly and pairs well with light sauces.
• Fresh Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy tomatoes are the base of the sauce. You can use Roma tomatoes for their rich flavor, but any ripe variety will work.
• Garlic: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and creating a silky texture in the sauce.
• Fresh Basil: Chopped basil leaves add a fragrant and herbaceous touch.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the sauce to your taste.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional): For a finishing touch, you can grate some Parmesan cheese over the plated pasta.

🍽️ Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Score a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato and blanch them in the boiling water for about 30 seconds. This makes it easier to peel the skin. Remove them and immediately place them in ice water. Peel the skin, then core and dice the tomatoes.

2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, but not browned.

3. Make the Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and become a chunky sauce. Stir in the chopped basil in the last few minutes of cooking.

4. Cook the Pasta: While making the sauce, cook the angel hair pasta in a separate pot of boiling salted water. It should take about 2-3 minutes to cook. Drain the pasta when it’s al dente.

5. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the fresh tomato sauce. Serve it hot, garnished with more fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

⏱️ Time Needed to Prepare:
This dish can be prepared in approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a great choice for a quick and delicious meal.

Enjoy your Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tomato Sauce! 🍝🍅😋

Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tomato Sauce:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving (1 cup of cooked pasta with sauce).
• Carbohydrates: About 65-75 grams.
• Protein: 7-9 grams.
• Fat: 2-4 grams.
• Fiber: 3-5 grams.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The dish provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from tomatoes, and various B vitamins from pasta. It also contains potassium, folate, and antioxidants.

Health Information:

1. Low in Fat: This dish is relatively low in fat, especially if you use minimal olive oil. It can be a good choice for those looking to limit their fat intake.

2. Moderate Calories: The calorie content is moderate, making it suitable for a balanced meal. Keep portion sizes in check to manage calorie intake.

3. Carbohydrate Source: Angel hair pasta is a source of carbohydrates, which provide energy. Whole wheat pasta can be used for added fiber and nutrients.

4. Tomatoes and Antioxidants: Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which may have health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain diseases.

5. Fiber: The dish contains some fiber, which aids in digestion and can help you feel full and satisfied.

6. Protein: While not exceptionally high in protein, this meal does provide some, which is essential for various bodily functions.

7. Customization: You can customize this dish to meet your dietary preferences by adjusting ingredients. For example, you can add more vegetables for added fiber and nutrients or use whole wheat pasta for higher fiber content.

8. Sodium: Be mindful of the salt content, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake. You can control the amount of salt added to the sauce.

9. Balanced Meal: To make this a more balanced meal, consider adding a side salad or protein source like grilled chicken or tofu for added nutrition.

Remember that the specific nutrition facts may vary depending on the brand of pasta, the amount of olive oil used, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to check product labels and consider your individual dietary needs and goals when enjoying this delicious pasta dish.