π Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Lemon and Garlic π
Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Lemon and Garlic is a delightful and refreshing pasta dish that combines the lightness of angel hair pasta with the zesty flavors of tomatoes, lemon, and garlic. It’s a simple yet flavorful Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
π History:
The origins of this dish can be traced back to Italian cuisine, known for its use of fresh and vibrant ingredients. Pasta dishes featuring tomatoes, garlic, and lemon have been enjoyed in various forms in Italy for centuries. While there isn’t a specific historical account of this exact recipe, it embodies the essence of Mediterranean cooking, which emphasizes the use of seasonal produce and simple preparation methods.
π₯ Components:
- Angel Hair Pasta: A very thin pasta variety, often called “capelli d’angelo” in Italian, which cooks quickly and pairs well with light sauces.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are typically used to make the sauce. You can also use canned tomatoes for convenience.
- Lemon: Lemon zest and juice add a tangy, citrusy flavor that brightens the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are minced or thinly sliced to infuse the sauce with a rich, savory aroma.
- Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil is used to sautΓ© the garlic and coat the pasta.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil leaves are often added for a burst of freshness and color.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, to taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: Optional, for garnish.
π©βπ³ Steps to Prepare Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Lemon and Garlic:
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Boil 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 it’s al dente, which usually takes around 2-4 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sautΓ© for about a minute or until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
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Add Tomatoes: Add the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to break down and release their juices.
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Lemon Zest and Juice: Grate the zest of one lemon and squeeze its juice into the tomato mixture. Stir well to combine. The lemon adds a delightful zing to the sauce.
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Season: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet with the tomato and lemon sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the flavorful sauce.
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Fresh Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness and color.
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Serve: Plate the Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Lemon and Garlic, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately.
β° Preparation Time:
This dish can typically be prepared in about 20-25 minutes, making it a quick and delicious option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Enjoy your Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Lemon and Garlic ππ! It’s a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that will surely satisfy your taste buds. ππ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Lemon and Garlic:
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Fat: 4-6 grams
- Fiber: 3-4 grams
- Sugar: 5-7 grams
- Sodium: 400-500 milligrams (may vary based on seasoning)
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a suitable option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Good Source of Carbohydrates: The primary source of energy in this dish is carbohydrates from the angel hair pasta. It provides sustained energy.
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Low in Fat: The dish is generally low in fat, particularly if you use olive oil sparingly. Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats.
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Moderate Protein: While not particularly high in protein, the dish does provide some protein from the pasta. You can enhance the protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu if desired.
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Rich in Fiber: The inclusion of whole wheat angel hair pasta or whole tomatoes can increase the fiber content. Fiber aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Tomatoes and lemon contribute vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin A, as well as minerals like potassium.
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Heart-Healthy: Olive oil and the absence of heavy cream make this dish heart-healthy. The monounsaturated fats in olive oil are known to be beneficial for cardiovascular health.
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Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is generally low in saturated fat, which is associated with heart disease.
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Low in Cholesterol: There’s little to no cholesterol in this recipe, making it suitable for individuals watching their cholesterol intake.
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Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to meet dietary preferences and restrictions. For example, using whole wheat pasta increases fiber content, and omitting cheese reduces fat and calories.
Remember that the specific nutrition facts may vary depending on the brands and quantities of ingredients used, so it’s a good idea to check the labels or use a nutrition calculator if you have specific dietary requirements or concerns. Enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.