Angel Hair Pasta With Roasted Garlic

🍝 Angel Hair Pasta with Roasted Garlic 🧄

Angel Hair Pasta with Roasted Garlic is a delectable Italian pasta dish known for its delicate strands of thin pasta and the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. Here’s a comprehensive overview of this dish:

📜 History:
Angel Hair pasta, also known as “Capelli d’angelo” in Italian, has been a part of Italian cuisine for centuries. Its origins are deeply rooted in the rich pasta-making traditions of Italy. The term “angel hair” refers to the fine, hair-like strands of pasta, which are thinner than traditional spaghetti. Roasted garlic, on the other hand, has been used in various culinary traditions for its unique flavor. The combination of these two elements in a dish is a testament to the creativity and innovation of Italian cuisine.

🧄 Components:

1. Angel Hair Pasta: This pasta variety is very thin and delicate, made from durum wheat semolina or a combination of semolina and eggs.
2. Roasted Garlic: Whole garlic bulbs are roasted until soft and caramelized, imparting a sweet and mellow flavor to the dish.
3. Olive Oil: Used for roasting the garlic and as a base for the pasta sauce.
4. Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory and nutty flavor to the dish.
5. Fresh Herbs: Parsley or basil is often used for garnish, adding freshness and color.
6. Salt and Pepper: Seasonings are crucial for enhancing the overall taste.

👩‍🍳 Preparation Steps:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Angel Hair Pasta with Roasted Garlic:

1. Roast the Garlic:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Cut off the top of a whole garlic bulb to expose the cloves.
   • Drizzle olive oil over the garlic, wrap it in aluminum foil, and roast for about 40-45 minutes until soft and golden. Let it cool.
   • Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them into a paste.

2. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the angel hair pasta and cook until al dente (usually 2-3 minutes for fresh pasta or 4-5 minutes for dried pasta).
   • Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta cooking water.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the roasted garlic paste and sauté for a minute or two to release its flavors.
   • Toss in the cooked pasta, a splash of pasta cooking water, and grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Stir well until the pasta is coated evenly and the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Garnish and Serve:

   • Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs (parsley or basil) over the pasta.
   • Serve hot with an extra drizzle of olive oil and more Parmesan cheese if desired.

⏰ Time Needed:
The total time required to prepare Angel Hair Pasta with Roasted Garlic is approximately 1 hour, which includes roasting the garlic and cooking the pasta. This time may vary slightly depending on your cooking skills and equipment.

Enjoy your Angel Hair Pasta with Roasted Garlic! 🍽️😇🧄

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

📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximate values):

• Calories: Around 350-400 calories
• Protein: Approximately 10-15 grams
• Carbohydrates: About 60-70 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-4 grams
• Sugars: 2-3 grams
• Fat: 8-10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
• Cholesterol: 5-10 milligrams
• Sodium: 200-300 milligrams
• Vitamin C: 2-4% of daily recommended intake
• Calcium: 5-10% of daily recommended intake
• Iron: 8-12% of daily recommended intake

🍽️ Health Information:

• Low in Saturated Fat: Angel Hair Pasta with Roasted Garlic is relatively low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.
• Good Source of Carbohydrates: The pasta provides a good source of carbohydrates, offering energy for your daily activities.
• Moderate Protein: While not extremely high in protein, it provides a moderate amount, contributing to muscle maintenance and repair.
• Garlic’s Health Benefits: Roasted garlic contains antioxidants and may have potential health benefits, including immune support and heart health.
• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat angel hair pasta, which offers more fiber and nutrients.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to maintain a balanced diet and calorie intake.
• Add Vegetables: To enhance nutritional value, consider adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the dish.

Remember that the exact nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. It’s also essential to consider your individual dietary needs and any dietary restrictions you may have when enjoying this dish.