Angel Hair with Lemon and Pine Nuts

🍝 Angel Hair with Lemon and Pine Nuts 🍋🌰

What is it?
Angel Hair with Lemon and Pine Nuts is a delightful pasta dish known for its light and refreshing flavors. It combines thin angel hair pasta with a zesty lemony sauce and the nutty crunch of pine nuts. This dish strikes a perfect balance between citrusy brightness and nutty richness, making it a popular choice among pasta enthusiasts.

History:
The exact origins of this dish are not well-documented, but it’s believed to be a modern Italian-American creation. Italian cuisine often features the combination of pasta and lemon, but the addition of pine nuts and the use of angel hair pasta is likely a twist developed in the United States, where Italian-American cuisine has flourished.

Components:

• Angel Hair Pasta: Thin pasta strands resembling angel hair, which cook quickly and are delicate in texture.
• Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest for a burst of citrusy flavor.
• Pine Nuts: Small, creamy, and slightly sweet nuts that add a nutty crunch to the dish.
• Olive Oil: To sauté and create a silky sauce.
• Garlic: Minced garlic for aromatic depth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese for a salty and savory element.
• Fresh Herbs: Optional garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added freshness.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning to taste.

Steps to Prepare:

1. 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 al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Toast the Pine Nuts: In a dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Lemon Sauce: In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant but not browned.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic-infused oil. Toss to combine. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and sprinkle lemon zest on top. Toss again to evenly coat the pasta with the lemony goodness.

5. Add Pine Nuts and Cheese: Stir in the toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until the pasta is well coated, and the ingredients are evenly distributed.

6. Serve: Plate the Angel Hair with Lemon and Pine Nuts, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Time Needed:

• Preparation: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes

This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weekday dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful pasta dish! 🍽️😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair with Lemon and Pine Nuts:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: About 400-450 calories per serving.
• Protein: Angel hair pasta provides some protein, while pine nuts add a small amount.
• Carbohydrates: Mainly from pasta, providing energy.
• Dietary Fiber: Limited fiber content, primarily from the pasta.
• Fat: Olive oil and pine nuts contribute healthy fats.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Lemon zest adds vitamin C and antioxidants.

Health Information:

1. Moderate Calories: This dish falls within a moderate calorie range, making it suitable as part of a balanced meal.

2. Protein: While not a significant source of protein, it still contributes to your overall intake.

3. Carbohydrates: The pasta provides a source of carbohydrates, which are a primary source of energy. Opt for whole wheat angel hair pasta for added fiber.

4. Healthy Fats: Olive oil used in the sauce is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Pine nuts also contain healthy fats, including essential fatty acids.

5. Vitamins and Antioxidants: Lemon zest is a good source of vitamin C and provides antioxidants, which can boost your immune system and protect cells from damage.

6. Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes, as pasta dishes can be calorie-dense. Consider adding vegetables or lean protein to make the meal more balanced.

7. Balance and Variety: While this dish can be a part of a healthy diet, it’s essential to maintain variety and balance in your overall food choices.

Remember that the nutrition content can vary based on factors like portion size and specific ingredients used. It’s always a good practice to customize recipes to suit your dietary preferences and nutritional needs.