ππ Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tuna ππ
What is it?
Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tuna is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines thin and delicate angel hair pasta with the rich flavors of fresh tuna. It’s a fusion of Mediterranean and seafood cuisine, resulting in a light yet satisfying meal.
History:
The history of this dish is not well-documented, but it likely originated in coastal regions of Italy where fresh seafood is abundant. The use of angel hair pasta, known for its fine and delicate texture, complements the tender tuna and creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
Components:
- Angel Hair Pasta: This type of pasta is extremely thin and cooks quickly, making it a perfect choice for this dish.
- Fresh Tuna: High-quality, sushi-grade tuna is preferred, as it provides the best flavor and texture.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautΓ©ing and adding richness to the dish.
- Garlic: For that wonderful aromatic flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness and color.
- White Wine: Used for deglazing the pan and enhancing the sauce.
- Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley are often used to garnish and add freshness.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Tuna: Start by seasoning your fresh tuna with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of olive oil. Sear the tuna for 1-2 minutes on each side, depending on your desired level of doneness (rare to medium-rare is recommended). Remove the tuna from the pan and let it rest while you prepare the pasta.
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet used for the tuna, add more olive oil if needed. SautΓ© minced garlic until fragrant. Then, add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in a splash of white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
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Combine: Gently flake the seared tuna into bite-sized pieces and add it to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss everything together to combine.
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Final Touch: Return the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet, mixing it with the tuna and sauce until well-coated.
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Serve: Plate the dish, garnish with fresh basil and parsley, and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Your Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tuna is ready to be savored!
Time Needed:
- Preparing and searing the tuna: 10-15 minutes
- Cooking the pasta: 5-7 minutes
- Making the sauce and assembling the dish: 15-20 minutes
In total, you can expect to spend approximately 30-40 minutes preparing this delicious meal. Enjoy! π½οΈπ
Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tuna:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a Serving):
- Calories: 400-450 calories per serving
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Total Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 30-40 milligrams
- Sodium: 300-400 milligrams
Health Information:
- Protein: Tuna is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Carbohydrates: Angel hair pasta provides energy through carbohydrates, but the dish is not particularly high in carbs compared to other pasta dishes.
- Dietary Fiber: While this dish doesn’t contain a high amount of fiber, you can increase fiber content by adding more vegetables or whole wheat pasta.
- Total Fat: The total fat content can vary depending on the amount of olive oil used. Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat.
- Saturated Fat: Keep saturated fat in check by using olive oil sparingly and opting for fresh tuna instead of canned, which can be higher in saturated fat.
- Cholesterol: Fresh tuna is low in cholesterol, making this dish heart-friendly.
- Sodium: The sodium content can be controlled by reducing the amount of added salt and using low-sodium ingredients.
Overall, Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tuna can be a nutritious and balanced meal, especially when you choose high-quality ingredients and practice portion control. It’s a good source of lean protein and can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.
