๐ Angel Hair With Saffron & Fennel Zucchini ๐ฝ๏ธ
Angel Hair with Saffron & Fennel Zucchini is a delightful pasta dish that combines the delicate flavors of angel hair pasta with the aromatic essence of saffron and the refreshing crunch of fennel and zucchini. Let’s dive into the details!
๐ History:
This dish is a modern creation that draws inspiration from Italian cuisine, known for its love of pasta, and the Mediterranean influence of using saffron and fresh vegetables. The combination of saffron and fennel is a classic pairing in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes.
๐ฅ Components:
- Angel Hair Pasta: Thin and delicate pasta that resembles strands of angel hair, hence the name. It’s made from durum wheat semolina and water.
- Saffron: A highly prized spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus. It adds a distinctive flavor and a beautiful golden color to the dish.
- Fennel: A crisp and aromatic vegetable with a mild licorice-like flavor. Both the bulb and fronds are used in this recipe.
- Zucchini: A summer squash that adds a fresh, slightly sweet taste and a pleasant texture.
- Olive Oil: Provides the base for sautรฉing and adds richness to the dish.
- Garlic: Adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- White Wine: Used to deglaze the pan and infuse the dish with a fruity note.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy finish.
- Salt & Pepper: To season and enhance the flavors.
๐ฉโ๐ณ Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by finely slicing the fennel bulb and zucchini, mincing the garlic, and soaking a few saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water to release their flavor and color.
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Cook the Pasta: Cook the angel hair pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
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Sautรฉ Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced fennel, sautรฉ until fragrant and slightly caramelized.
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Add Zucchini: Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and continue to sautรฉ until it’s tender yet retains some crunch.
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Infuse with Saffron: Pour in the saffron-infused water and white wine, letting it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly.
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Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked angel hair pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the saffron-infused mixture. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
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Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot, garnished with freshly chopped fennel fronds and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
โฐ Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this dish is typically around 30-40 minutes, making it a relatively quick and elegant meal to whip up for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight dinner.
Enjoy your Angel Hair With Saffron & Fennel Zucchini! ๐ฝ๏ธ๐ฟ๐ง๐ท
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair With Saffron & Fennel Zucchini:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Total Fat: 12-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 10-15 mg
- Sodium: 300-400 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 4-6 grams
- Sugars: 3-5 grams
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Vitamin C: 20-30% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin A: 10-15% of DV
- Calcium: 10-15% of DV
- Iron: 15-20% of DV
Health Information:
- Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is relatively low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.
- Good Source of Fiber: The pasta, zucchini, and fennel contribute dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Rich in Vitamins: Angel hair pasta provides carbohydrates for energy, while the vegetables, especially zucchini, offer vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin A.
- Moderate Calories: The calorie content is moderate, making it suitable for those maintaining or watching their weight.
- Healthy Ingredients: Olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy.
- Antioxidants: Saffron, garlic, and vegetables in this dish contain antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress.
Remember that specific nutrition values can vary based on portion size, cooking methods, and ingredient brands. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice. Enjoy your meal in moderation as part of a balanced diet! ๐๐ฝ๏ธ๐ฅ๐ฟ
