🍝 Angel Hair with Asparagus & Tomatoes 🍅
Angel Hair with Asparagus & Tomatoes is a delightful pasta dish that combines the delicate texture of angel hair pasta with the freshness of asparagus and the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes. It’s a light and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for spring and summer when these ingredients are in season.
📜 History:
While the specific origins of this dish are not well-documented, it is a part of the broader tradition of Italian cuisine, which is known for its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Pasta dishes with vegetables like asparagus and tomatoes have likely been enjoyed in various forms throughout Italy for generations.
🍽️ Components:
To prepare Angel Hair with Asparagus & Tomatoes, you will need the following components:
Ingredients:
- Angel hair pasta
- Fresh asparagus spears
- Ripe tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and black pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
👩🍳 Preparation Steps:
Here’s how to prepare this delicious dish:
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the ripe tomatoes and mince the garlic.
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Cook the Pasta:
- Add the angel hair pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 2-4 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
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Sauté the Asparagus and Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become tender-crisp. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Add the Tomatoes:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. If you like a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage.
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Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet with the asparagus and tomatoes. Toss everything together to combine and let it cook for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Serve:
- Once the pasta is well coated with the tomato and asparagus mixture, remove from heat.
- Serve the Angel Hair with Asparagus & Tomatoes hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
⏰ Time Needed:
The total time to prepare this dish is approximately 20-30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a taste of Italy at home.
Enjoy your delicious Angel Hair with Asparagus & Tomatoes! 🍽️🇮🇹😊
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair with Asparagus & Tomatoes:
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 60-70g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Fiber: 5-7g
- Vitamins and Minerals: This dish is a good source of vitamins like vitamin C from the tomatoes and vitamin K from the asparagus. It also contains various B vitamins, particularly if you use whole-grain pasta. Additionally, it provides essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
🍅 Health Information:
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Low in Calories: Angel Hair with Asparagus & Tomatoes is relatively low in calories, making it a suitable choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Rich in Fiber: The dish contains a decent amount of fiber, thanks to the asparagus and whole-grain pasta if used. Fiber is beneficial for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.
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Good Source of Vitamins: This dish provides essential vitamins like vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health. It also contains vitamin K, crucial for bone health and blood clotting.
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Hydration: Tomatoes have a high water content, contributing to hydration. Staying hydrated is essential for overall health.
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Balanced Macronutrients: It offers a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. This balance can help maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
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Antioxidants: Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which have been associated with various health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.
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Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is relatively low in saturated fats, which is good for heart health.
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Customization: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, such as using whole wheat pasta for added fiber or adding extra vegetables for more nutrients.
While Angel Hair with Asparagus & Tomatoes can be a nutritious and wholesome meal, it’s essential to consider portion sizes and overall dietary balance as part of a healthy eating plan. Additionally, individual nutritional needs may vary, so it’s a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.
