Angel Hair With Tomatoes, Basil and Garlic

🍝 Angel Hair With Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic 🍅🌿🧄

Angel Hair with Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic is a delightful and classic Italian pasta dish that embodies simplicity and the freshness of Mediterranean flavors. This dish is also known as “Capellini Pomodoro” in Italian.

📜 History:
The history of this dish traces back to Italy, where pasta, tomatoes, and basil are staples of the Mediterranean diet. It’s a testament to the Italian culinary philosophy of using high-quality ingredients in a straightforward manner to create dishes that burst with flavor. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and aromatic garlic highlights the essence of Italian cuisine.

🥘 Components:
To prepare this dish, you will need the following components:

• Angel hair pasta (Capellini): Thin and delicate pasta that cooks quickly.
• Ripe tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes are the star of this dish.
• Fresh basil leaves: Fragrant basil adds a burst of herbal freshness.
• Garlic cloves: Garlic infuses the dish with its aromatic flavor.
• Olive oil: High-quality olive oil brings richness and a touch of fruitiness.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish.

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare:

1. Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to follow the package instructions for precise cooking times. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat a generous amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, but be careful not to burn it.

3. Add Tomatoes: Dice the ripe tomatoes and add them to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.

4. Season: Season the tomato mixture with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of spiciness. Stir well to combine.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together so that the pasta is coated with the flavorful tomato and garlic sauce.

6. Add Basil: Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the pasta. Basil adds a wonderful freshness to the dish.

7. Serve: Once everything is well combined, transfer the Angel Hair with Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic to serving plates. You can garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

⏰ Time Needed:
This dish can be prepared in approximately 20-30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal option. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and homemade without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy your delightful Italian-inspired meal! 🍽️😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair With Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately):

• Calories: 350-400 calories
• Protein: 8-10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 70-80 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 3-5 grams
• Sugars: 4-6 grams
• Fat: 5-8 grams
• Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
• Sodium: 350-450 milligrams
• Vitamin C: 20-30% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin A: 10-15% DV
• Iron: 8-10% DV

Health Information:

1. Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is generally low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.

2. Good Source of Vitamins: Angel Hair With Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic provides a significant amount of vitamin C, which is essential for the immune system and skin health. It also contains vitamin A, important for eye health.

3. Moderate Fiber: The dish has a moderate amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.

4. Low in Added Sugars: It has relatively low added sugars, making it a healthier choice compared to many processed foods.

5. Balanced Macronutrients: The combination of carbohydrates from pasta, protein from tomatoes, and a small amount of fat from olive oil creates a balanced meal.

6. Lycopene: Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant associated with various health benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases.

7. Low in Sodium (if controlled): You can control the sodium content by adjusting the amount of salt you add during cooking, which is important for individuals on a low-sodium diet.

Keep in mind that the exact nutritional values may vary depending on factors like portion size and specific ingredients used. This dish can be a part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation, and it’s a great way to incorporate fresh vegetables and whole grains into your meals.