π Angel Hair Pasta With Vegetables, Pine Nuts, and Feta Cheese π§
What is it?
Angel Hair Pasta With Vegetables, Pine Nuts, and Feta Cheese is a delightful and flavorful pasta dish that combines the delicate texture of angel hair pasta with a medley of colorful vegetables, the nutty crunch of pine nuts, and the creamy tang of feta cheese. It’s a perfect blend of Italian pasta with Mediterranean and Greek influences, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal.
History:
The exact origin of this dish is not well-documented, but it draws inspiration from Mediterranean and Italian cuisines. Pasta, in general, has a long history in Italy, dating back to ancient times. Feta cheese and pine nuts are common ingredients in Mediterranean and Greek cooking. The combination of these elements likely emerged as a fusion of these culinary traditions.
Components:
- Angel Hair Pasta: Thin and delicate pasta that cooks quickly.
- Vegetables: Typically includes bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and spinach for a colorful and nutritious mix.
- Pine Nuts: Small, buttery, and crunchy nuts that add depth of flavor and texture.
- Feta Cheese: A crumbly and tangy cheese that complements the other ingredients.
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Angel Hair Pasta With Vegetables, Pine Nuts, and Feta Cheese:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about 225g) of angel hair pasta
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 4 oz (about 115g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sautΓ© for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. SautΓ© for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the spinach and pine nuts, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the pine nuts turn golden.
- Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve your Angel Hair Pasta With Vegetables, Pine Nuts, and Feta Cheese hot and enjoy!
Preparation Time:
This dish typically takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare, including prep and cooking time. It’s a relatively quick and easy recipe, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
π Enjoy your delicious Angel Hair Pasta With Vegetables, Pine Nuts, and Feta Cheese! π½οΈπ§‘
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair Pasta With Vegetables, Pine Nuts, and Feta Cheese:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values):
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Total Fat: 18-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
- Cholesterol: 15-20 mg
- Sodium: 400-450 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 5-7 grams
- Sugars: 5-7 grams
- Protein: 12-15 grams
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: 20-30% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 80-100% of the DV
- Calcium: 15-20% of the DV
- Iron: 10-15% of the DV
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Good Source of Fiber: The pasta, vegetables, and pine nuts in this recipe provide a decent amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.
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Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Angel Hair Pasta With Vegetables, Pine Nuts, and Feta Cheese is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, which supports your immune system, and vitamin A, important for vision and skin health.
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Protein from Feta Cheese: Feta cheese contributes some protein to the dish, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
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Healthy Fats: The olive oil and pine nuts provide healthy monounsaturated fats that can support heart health.
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Balanced Meal: This dish combines carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, making it a well-balanced meal option.
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Vegetables for Nutrients: The variety of vegetables adds a range of nutrients and antioxidants to the meal, promoting overall health.
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Sodium Consideration: Keep in mind the sodium content, and adjust salt to your taste. Reducing salt can be beneficial for those watching their sodium intake.
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Customization: You can adjust the ingredient quantities to meet your dietary needs, such as reducing the amount of cheese or using whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Remember that the actual nutrition values may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use, so it’s a good practice to check the nutrition labels on the products you purchase and adjust your serving size accordingly to meet your dietary goals.