Angel Hair Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas

🍝 Angel Hair Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas 🍽️

Angel Hair Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas is a delicious Italian pasta dish that combines delicate angel hair pasta with the rich flavors of prosciutto, sweet peas, and a creamy sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of salty and savory flavors, making it a popular choice among pasta lovers.

📜 History:
The history of this dish can be traced back to Italy, where pasta is a staple food. Angel hair pasta, also known as “capelli d’angelo,” is one of the thinnest and most delicate pasta varieties available. Prosciutto, a dry-cured ham, has been a beloved ingredient in Italian cuisine for centuries. The combination of these ingredients, along with sweet peas and a creamy sauce, likely emerged as a delicious culinary innovation in Italian kitchens.

🍽️ Components:
To make Angel Hair Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas, you’ll need the following components:

• Angel hair pasta: This fine pasta cooks quickly and is the base of the dish.
• Prosciutto: Thinly sliced, salty, and savory dry-cured ham.
• Peas: Sweet peas add a burst of color and sweetness to the dish.
• Creamy sauce: The sauce is typically made with heavy cream, butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and seasonings.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is used for added flavor and to thicken the sauce.

👩‍🍳 Preparation Steps:
Here’s how to prepare Angel Hair Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas:

1. 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 and set aside.

2. Sauté Prosciutto: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced prosciutto and sauté until it becomes slightly crispy. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce thicken, but be careful not to let it boil.

4. Add Peas: Stir in the sweet peas and let them cook in the creamy sauce for a few minutes until they are heated through and tender.

5. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked angel hair pasta and crispy prosciutto to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with extra Parmesan cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and perhaps some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Serve hot.

⏲️ Time Needed:
The preparation time for Angel Hair Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your cooking skills and experience. It’s a relatively quick and easy dish to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Enjoy your meal! 🍽️👨‍🍳👩‍🍳😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugars: 3-4g
• Fat: 25-30g
• Saturated Fat: 12-15g
• Cholesterol: 50-60mg
• Sodium: 600-700mg

Health Information:

1. Protein: This dish provides a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.

2. Carbohydrates: The pasta in this recipe is a source of carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities.

3. Dietary Fiber: While the dish contains some fiber from the peas, it’s not particularly high in fiber. Consider adding more vegetables or using whole wheat pasta for increased fiber content, which can support digestive health.

4. Fats: The prosciutto and creamy sauce contribute to the dish’s fat content. While fats are necessary for a balanced diet, it’s important to consume them in moderation. Opt for lighter cream alternatives or reduce the amount of butter for a healthier option.

5. Saturated Fat: Keep an eye on saturated fat intake, as it can contribute to heart health concerns. Consider using leaner cuts of prosciutto or reducing the amount of cheese in the sauce to lower saturated fat content.

6. Cholesterol: Prosciutto and Parmesan cheese contain cholesterol. If you’re watching your cholesterol intake, be mindful of portion sizes and choose lower-cholesterol alternatives when possible.

7. Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on the prosciutto and cheese used. High sodium intake may contribute to high blood pressure, so choose low-sodium versions of ingredients or season with salt sparingly.

8. Balanced Diet: While this dish is delicious, it’s essential to balance it with other nutrient-rich foods throughout the day. Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables to ensure a well-rounded diet.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. Adjusting ingredients or portion sizes can help make this dish a healthier choice for your dietary needs.