π Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon and Garlic π
Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon and Garlic is a delightful Italian pasta dish known for its light, fresh, and zesty flavors. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that combines the delicate texture of angel hair pasta with the bright and tangy notes of lemon and the aromatic essence of garlic.
π History:
The origins of this dish can be traced back to traditional Italian cuisine, which has always valued the use of simple, high-quality ingredients. Lemon and garlic have been staples in Italian cooking for centuries. Angel hair pasta, also known as capellini, is a type of pasta that is thin and delicate, making it a perfect match for light sauces like lemon and garlic. The combination of these ingredients reflects the essence of Mediterranean flavors.
π₯ Components:
To prepare Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon and Garlic, you’ll need the following components:
- Angel hair pasta (capellini)
- Fresh lemons
- Garlic cloves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
π©βπ³ Preparation Steps:
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Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, typically for about 2-3 minutes. You want it to be al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
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Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, zest and juice the fresh lemons. Mince the garlic cloves finely. In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook it until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to brown it.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
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Add Lemon: Now, add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the pasta. The lemon should bring a bright and fresh flavor to the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your preference.
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Serve: Transfer the Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon and Garlic to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. You can also offer grated Parmesan cheese for those who like a cheesy kick.
π Time Needed:
The preparation and cooking time for this dish is relatively short:
- Boiling the pasta: 2-3 minutes
- Preparing the sauce: 5-7 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
This quick and delicious pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests with a flavorful yet straightforward meal. Enjoy your Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon and Garlic! π½οΈππ
Certainly, here is some nutrition information and health-related details for Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon and Garlic:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving (1 cup cooked pasta with sauce).
- Carbohydrates: Around 60-70 grams.
- Protein: About 8-10 grams.
- Fat: Roughly 10-15 grams, primarily from olive oil.
- Fiber: Around 2-3 grams.
- Vitamins: Significant amounts of Vitamin C from lemons.
- Minerals: Some iron, calcium, and potassium.
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Moderate Protein: While it’s not a high-protein dish, it provides a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
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Healthy Fats: The primary source of fat in this recipe is olive oil, which is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
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Carbohydrates: Angel hair pasta is a type of pasta that is thinner than traditional pasta, so it tends to have slightly fewer carbohydrates. It can be a part of a balanced diet for those watching their carb intake.
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Vitamin C: Lemons are a great source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and overall health.
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Fiber: While not particularly high in fiber, this dish does contain some dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.
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Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences, such as using whole wheat pasta for added fiber or reducing the amount of olive oil for lower fat content.
It’s worth noting that the overall nutritional profile of this dish can vary depending on portion size, the amount of olive oil used, and any optional ingredients like Parmesan cheese. As with any meal, moderation and balance are key to maintaining a healthy diet.