π Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Dill Sauce π
What is it?
Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon Dill Sauce is a delightful and light pasta dish that combines the delicate flavors of thin angel hair pasta with a zesty and aromatic lemon dill sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the bright, citrusy notes of lemon and the fresh, herbaceous flavor of dill.
History:
The exact origins of this dish are not well-documented, but it likely emerged as part of the broader Italian-American culinary tradition. Pasta dishes featuring lemon-based sauces have been enjoyed in Italian cuisine for centuries, with lemon acting as a natural flavor enhancer. The addition of dill may have been influenced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary traditions, where dill is a popular herb.
Components:
To prepare Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon Dill Sauce, you will need the following components:
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of angel hair pasta
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- Zest of one lemon
- Juice of one lemon
- 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Steps to Prepare:
Here are the steps to prepare this delicious dish:
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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 the pasta and set it aside.
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Prepare the Lemon Dill Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sautΓ© for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
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Create the Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the Dill:
- Stir in the chopped fresh dill into the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet with the lemon dill sauce.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce until it’s well coated.
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Serve:
- Plate the pasta in individual servings, garnishing with additional fresh dill and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Time Needed:
The preparation of Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon Dill Sauce typically takes around 25-30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal option.
Enjoy your delicious Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon Dill Sauce! πππ
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair Pasta with Lemon Dill Sauce:
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Total Fat: About 20-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Cholesterol: About 50-60 milligrams
- Sodium: Varies based on salt added
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Around 2-3 grams
- Sugars: Approximately 3-5 grams
- Protein: About 9-10 grams
Health Information:
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Caloric Content: This dish provides moderate calories, making it suitable as a main course. The caloric content can vary depending on portion size and ingredient choices (e.g., heavy cream versus a lighter alternative).
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Fats: The dish contains a notable amount of fat, mainly from olive oil, heavy cream, and any added cheese. While fats are an essential part of the diet, it’s important to consume them in moderation. You can consider using lighter cream alternatives or reducing the amount of cheese for a healthier option.
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Protein: Angel hair pasta with lemon dill sauce offers a moderate amount of protein. Protein is important for muscle maintenance and overall body function.
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Carbohydrates: This dish is carbohydrate-rich due to the pasta. The lemon dill sauce itself is relatively low in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide energy but should be balanced with other nutrients.
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Sodium: The sodium content can vary depending on factors like salt added during cooking. High sodium intake may contribute to hypertension, so it’s advisable to monitor your salt usage.
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Fiber: While the dish contains some dietary fiber, it’s not particularly high. Consider adding more vegetables to increase fiber intake.
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Vitamins and Minerals: The lemon in the sauce provides vitamin C, and the dish may contain calcium from cheese if used. However, it’s relatively low in other vitamins and minerals, so including a side salad or additional vegetables can enhance its nutritional profile.
As with any meal, moderation and balance are key to maintaining a healthy diet. You can adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences and requirements, such as using whole wheat pasta for added fiber or incorporating more vegetables for extra vitamins and minerals.