🍝 Angel Hair with Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic 🍅🌿
Angel Hair with Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic is a delightful Italian pasta dish known for its simplicity and fresh flavors. This classic recipe combines thin angel hair pasta with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and pungent garlic. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
History:
This dish is a prime example of Italian cuisine, which is famous for its use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The combination of tomatoes, basil, and garlic has been a staple in Italian cooking for centuries. It’s a celebration of the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits and delicious flavors.
Components:
- Angel Hair Pasta: Thin and delicate pasta, often made from durum wheat semolina. It cooks quickly and pairs well with light sauces.
- Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy tomatoes are used to create a vibrant tomato sauce.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant and herbaceous element to the dish.
- Garlic: Garlic cloves are minced and sautéed to infuse the sauce with a rich, savory flavor.
- Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil is used for sautéing and to enhance the overall taste.
- Salt and Pepper: These seasonings are used to taste, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
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 according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This typically takes 2-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for a minute or until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
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Add Tomatoes: Stir in diced or cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
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Season: Season the tomato mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like.
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Toss with Basil: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil slightly, releasing its aroma.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained angel hair pasta to the skillet with the tomato and basil mixture. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
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Serve: Plate your Angel Hair with Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic, and garnish with extra basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Preparation Time:
Angel Hair with Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic is known for its quick preparation. In total, it should take approximately 20-30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Enjoy your delicious and aromatic Italian pasta dish! 🍽️🇮🇹
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Hair with Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 1 cup):
- Calories: 250-300 calories
- Carbohydrates: 45-50 grams
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 3-4 grams
- Sugars: 4-6 grams
- Sodium: 300-400 milligrams
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: Angel Hair with Tomatoes, Basil, and Garlic is relatively low in calories, making it a good choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Good Source of Carbohydrates: The pasta provides a substantial amount of carbohydrates, which are a primary source of energy for the body.
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Moderate Protein Content: This dish contains a moderate amount of protein, which is important for muscle maintenance and overall health.
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Healthy Fats: Olive oil, used in the recipe, is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
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Fiber: The dish contains a moderate amount of fiber, which can aid in digestion and help you feel full and satisfied.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Tomatoes and basil provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants.
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Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is generally low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.
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Customizable: You can adjust the recipe to your dietary preferences, such as using whole wheat pasta for added fiber or reducing the amount of olive oil for fewer calories.
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Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh tomatoes and basil adds extra nutritional value, as fresh produce is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
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Mediterranean Diet Influence: The combination of ingredients in this dish is consistent with the Mediterranean diet, which is associated with various health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease.
Remember that the exact nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to consult with a nutritionist or use a nutritional calculator for precise information based on your preparation. Enjoy your meal while being mindful of your dietary needs and goals! 🍅🌿🍝
