๐ Angel Hair with Tomato and Basil: A Delicious Italian Classic ๐ฎ๐น
What is it?
Angel Hair with Tomato and Basil is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. It features delicate angel hair pasta (also called capellini) tossed with a fresh tomato and basil sauce. This dish is a celebration of the freshness of its ingredients and the art of Italian cuisine.
History:
The roots of this dish trace back to Italy, where pasta has been a staple for centuries. Tomatoes, which are a key ingredient in the sauce, were introduced to Italy in the 16th century, and it didnโt take long for them to become a popular addition to pasta dishes. Basil, with its fragrant and aromatic qualities, paired beautifully with tomatoes, leading to the creation of this timeless recipe.
Components:
- Angel Hair Pasta: This pasta is incredibly thin and delicate, resembling strands of angel hair. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
- Tomatoes: Ripe, red tomatoes are the heart of the sauce. You can use fresh or canned tomatoes depending on the season.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves are used to infuse the sauce with their aromatic flavor.
- Garlic: Often used to add a hint of garlic flavor to the sauce.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautรฉing and flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the dish to taste.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grated Parmesan can be sprinkled on top for extra richness.
Steps to Prepare:
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Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook until al dente, usually 2-4 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
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Make the Tomato and Basil Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sautรฉ for a minute until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes and cook until they start to break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Tear or chop fresh basil leaves and stir them into the tomato mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato and basil sauce.
- Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta with the sauce.
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Serve: Plate the Angel Hair with Tomato and Basil and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Time Needed:
- Preparation: 10-15 minutes
- Cooking: 15-20 minutes (including boiling pasta)
- Total Time: Approximately 25-35 minutes
This dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursts with the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil. Itโs a delightful choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it captures the essence of Italian cuisine in a single, delicious plate of pasta. Enjoy! ๐ฝ๏ธ๐ฎ๐น๐
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair with Tomato and Basil:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 70-80 grams
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Fat: 3-5 grams
- Fiber: 3-5 grams
- Sugar: 5-7 grams
- Sodium: 600-800 mg
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: Angel Hair with Tomato and Basil is relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Low in Fat: The dish is generally low in fat, especially if you go easy on olive oil and cheese. Itโs suitable for individuals watching their fat intake.
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Good Source of Carbohydrates: The angel hair pasta provides carbohydrates, which are a quick source of energy. However, itโs essential to balance this with your daily activity level.
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Moderate Protein Content: While not exceptionally high in protein, this dish does contain some protein, making it a satisfying meal.
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Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as potassium. Basil adds vitamins A and K to the mix.
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Fiber from Basil and Pasta: The fresh basil and pasta contribute to the fiber content, which aids in digestion and can help you feel fuller for longer.
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Low in Saturated Fat: When prepared without excessive cheese or added fats, this dish is low in saturated fats, which is good for heart health.
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Sodium Consideration: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you are on a low-sodium diet. You can reduce sodium by using less salt and choosing low-sodium canned tomatoes.
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Customizable: You can adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs by adjusting the ingredients. For example, whole wheat pasta can increase fiber content.
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Balanced Meal: To make this a more balanced meal, consider adding a side salad with leafy greens and a protein source like grilled chicken or tofu.
Remember that the exact nutritional content may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used, so itโs a good practice to check product labels and calculate the nutrition facts if you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions.