Angel Hair Shrimp Bake

🍤🍝 Angel Hair Shrimp Bake 🍤🍝

Angel Hair Shrimp Bake is a delectable Italian-American dish that combines tender angel hair pasta, succulent shrimp, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its history, components, preparation steps, and estimated cooking time:

📜 History:
Angel Hair Shrimp Bake is a modern twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes, which have a long history dating back centuries. It falls under the broader category of baked pasta dishes, often referred to as “pasta al forno.” The specific origins of this dish are not well-documented, but it likely emerged in Italian-American kitchens, where creative cooks combined classic Italian flavors with local ingredients.

🍽️ Components:

1. Angel Hair Pasta: This type of pasta is extremely fine and delicate, resembling thin strands of hair, hence the name.
2. Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp are used, typically peeled and deveined for convenience.
3. Creamy Sauce: The sauce is made from ingredients like heavy cream, butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and sometimes white wine for added flavor.
4. Seasonings: Common seasonings include salt, pepper, and herbs like parsley or basil.
5. Cheese: Grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese is often sprinkled on top for a cheesy finish.

👩‍🍳 Preparation Steps:

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the angel hair pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it’s just tender (usually 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. You can sauté them in a pan with a bit of olive oil until they turn pink and opaque. Set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine Ingredients: Mix the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and creamy sauce in a large bowl. Add fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
5. Baking: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve: Let it cool slightly, garnish with more herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, and serve hot.

⏰ Estimated Time:
The total time needed to prepare Angel Hair Shrimp Bake can vary depending on your cooking skills and kitchen equipment, but on average, it takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour. This includes prep time, cooking the pasta and shrimp, making the sauce, assembling the dish, and baking.

Enjoy your delicious Angel Hair Shrimp Bake! 🍤🍝😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair Shrimp Bake:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 450-600 calories (varies based on portion size)
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-4 grams
• Sugars: 2-4 grams
• Fat: 25-30 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10-15 grams
• Cholesterol: 150-200 milligrams
• Sodium: 600-800 milligrams

Health Information:

1. Protein: Angel Hair Shrimp Bake provides a good amount of protein from both the shrimp and the cheese. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and overall body function.

2. Carbohydrates: The pasta contributes to the carbohydrate content. While carbs are a source of energy, it’s important to watch portion sizes if you’re mindful of your carb intake.

3. Fiber: The dish may contain a modest amount of dietary fiber, mostly from the pasta and any added vegetables or herbs. Fiber aids in digestion and can help you feel fuller for longer.

4. Fats: The creamy sauce and cheese contribute to the fat content. While some fat is necessary for a balanced diet, it’s important to consume these types of dishes in moderation, as they can be high in saturated fats.

5. Cholesterol: Shrimp contain dietary cholesterol, but it’s worth noting that dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol levels for most people compared to saturated and trans fats.

6. Sodium: Depending on how much salt is added during preparation, the sodium content can vary. High sodium intake should be monitored, especially for individuals with hypertension or heart conditions.

7. Nutrient Balance: Angel Hair Shrimp Bake can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. You can increase its nutritional value by adding vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or broccoli for added vitamins and minerals.

Remember that these nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. If you have specific dietary concerns or health goals, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.