Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp

🍝 Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp 🍤

Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp is a delicious and popular Italian-inspired dish known for its delicate pasta and savory, garlicky shrimp. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what it is, its history, components, preparation steps, and approximate preparation time:

What is it?
Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp is a classic Italian-American pasta dish that combines thin and delicate angel hair pasta with tender, flavorful shrimp cooked in a garlic-infused olive oil sauce. The dish is often garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

History:
The origins of this dish can be traced back to the Italian culinary tradition, where pasta and seafood are commonly combined. However, the specific history of Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp as a distinct recipe is less clear. It likely evolved over time as Italian immigrants adapted their traditional recipes to incorporate local ingredients in America, where shrimp were more readily available. Today, it’s a beloved Italian-American classic.

Components:

• Angel Hair Pasta: This pasta is incredibly thin and fine, resembling strands of angel hair. It cooks quickly and pairs well with light sauces.
• Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined. Large or jumbo-sized shrimp work best for this dish.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are minced or finely chopped to infuse the dish with a rich garlic flavor.
• Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil is used for sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a hint of heat, red pepper flakes can be added.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley is commonly used for garnish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory and nutty element to the dish.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes for some heat. Sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to brown it.

2. Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. It usually takes only 2-4 minutes to cook, so be vigilant. Drain the pasta.

4. Combine: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the garlic oil. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until well combined.

5. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. You can also drizzle a bit more olive oil for added richness.

Preparation Time:
Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp is a relatively quick dish to prepare. From start to finish, it can take approximately 20-30 minutes, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

Enjoy your homemade Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp! 🍽️👨‍🍳🍷👌

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Shrimp:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a Typical Serving):

• Calories: About 350-450 calories per serving.
• Protein: Provides a good source of protein, with shrimp being the primary source.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates per serving, mainly from the pasta.
• Fiber: Low in fiber, so consider adding vegetables or a side salad to increase fiber intake.
• Fat: Contains a moderate amount of fat due to olive oil, with approximately 15-20 grams per serving.
• Sodium: Sodium levels can vary based on added salt. Consider reducing salt for a healthier option.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium.

Health Information:

1. Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

2. Healthy Fats: Olive oil used in this recipe is a heart-healthy fat, rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which may have various health benefits.

3. Low Fiber: This dish is relatively low in fiber. Consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad to increase fiber intake for better digestion.

4. Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie intake, as pasta dishes can be calorie-dense. Opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

5. Sodium: Control salt levels to reduce sodium intake. Use herbs and spices to season instead of excess salt.

6. Balanced Meal: To make it a well-rounded meal, consider adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for added vitamins and minerals.

7. Allergies: Be cautious of shellfish allergies, as shrimp is a common allergen. Always check for dietary restrictions.

Remember that the nutritional values can vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. Adjusting the recipe to your dietary preferences and needs is a great way to make it a healthier option.