Angel Hair Pasta With Sauteed Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon and Tuna

🍝😇🍋🍅🐟 Angel Hair Pasta With Sauteed Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Tuna 🍝😇🍋🍅🐟

What is it?
Angel Hair Pasta With Sauteed Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Tuna is a delightful Italian-inspired pasta dish that combines the delicate strands of angel hair pasta with the bright and zesty flavors of sautéed cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, and flaky tuna. This dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quick and delicious meal.

History:
The history of this dish is not well-documented, but it likely draws inspiration from various Mediterranean and Italian culinary traditions. Pasta dishes featuring seafood, tomatoes, and lemon are prevalent in Italian cuisine, known for their simplicity and vibrant flavors.

Components:
Here are the key components of this dish:

1. Angel Hair Pasta: This type of pasta is incredibly thin and delicate, often referred to as “capellini.” It cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with light sauces.

2. Cherry Tomatoes: These small, sweet tomatoes add a burst of color and flavor to the dish. They are usually halved or left whole, depending on your preference.

3. Lemon Zest: Lemon zest provides a citrusy aroma and zingy flavor that brightens up the entire dish.

4. Tuna: High-quality canned tuna, preferably in olive oil, is used. It adds a savory depth to the dish and complements the other ingredients.

5. Garlic: Sautéed garlic adds a fragrant base note to the sauce.

6. Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is typically used for sautéing and flavor.

7. Fresh Herbs: Optional garnishes like fresh basil or parsley can be added for extra freshness.

Steps to Prepare:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (about 225g) angel hair pasta
• 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cans (5 oz each) of high-quality tuna in olive oil
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2-3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

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 (usually about 2-4 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water, and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.

3. Add Tuna and Lemon Zest: Add the canned tuna (with the olive oil from the can) to the skillet with the sautéed tomatoes. Break up the tuna into smaller chunks with a fork. Add the lemon zest and stir everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tuna is heated through.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet with the tomato-tuna mixture. Toss everything together gently, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta.

5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve your Angel Hair Pasta With Sauteed Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Tuna hot, and enjoy!

This dish is a perfect choice for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of fresh ingredients and the zing of lemon zest make it a delightful and memorable meal. Buon appetito! 🍽️😄🇮🇹

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair Pasta With Sauteed Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Tuna:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 390-450 kcal
• Protein: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugars: 2-3g
• Total Fat: 15-18g
  • Saturated Fat: 2-3g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 7-8g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 3-4g
• Cholesterol: 20-30mg
• Sodium: 350-400mg
• Potassium: 400-450mg
• Vitamin C: 15-20% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin A: 10-15% of DV
• Iron: 15-20% of DV

Health Information:

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

2. Carbohydrates: The pasta provides carbohydrates, a primary source of energy. Opt for whole wheat pasta if you want to increase fiber content.

3. Healthy Fats: The olive oil and tuna provide healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.

4. Low in Saturated Fat: The dish is relatively low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health.

5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Tuna, especially when canned in olive oil, contains omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties and heart benefits.

6. Vitamins: The lemon zest adds a dose of vitamin C, important for immune support, and vitamin A for healthy skin and vision.

7. Minerals: This dish contains potassium and iron, which are important for muscle function and oxygen transport in the blood, respectively.

8. Fiber: While this dish is not particularly high in fiber, you can increase fiber content by choosing whole wheat pasta or adding more vegetables like spinach or arugula.

9. Low Sugar: The sugar content is relatively low, which is beneficial for managing blood sugar levels.

10. Sodium: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you have high blood pressure. You can reduce sodium by using low-sodium canned tuna or adjusting salt to taste.

As with any meal, moderation and balance are key to a healthy diet. You can customize this dish by adding more vegetables or incorporating whole grains to enhance its nutritional profile. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet for a delicious and nutritious meal! 🍽️🥗🐟