Angel Hair Pasta in Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that epitomizes simplicity and flavor, perfect for a quick lunch or snack, particularly appealing to beginner cooks due to its ease of preparation and minimal ingredients. This European-inspired recipe can be whipped up in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those looking to create a satisfying meal on a stove top without spending much time.
Recipe Overview
Name: Angel Hair Pasta in Garlic Sauce
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Description: A versatile dish that can be enjoyed plain or with added ingredients like sautéed shrimp. The base recipe is delicious on its own, highlighting the flavors of garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, European, < 30 Mins, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, Easy, Inexpensive
Aggregated Rating: 5 (based on 76 reviews)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 399.8
- Total Fat: 12.6g
- Saturated Fat: 2.9g
- Cholesterol: 7.3mg
- Sodium: 133.9mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 57.6g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.5g
- Sugars: 2.1g
- Protein: 13.3g
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 1 pound angel hair pasta
Instructions
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Cook Pasta: Begin by cooking the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.
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Prepare Garlic Mixture: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped parsley, sautéing until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. This step infuses the oil with the aromatic flavors of garlic and parsley, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
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Combine Pasta and Garlic Mixture: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet with the garlic mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the infused oil and garlic.
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Top with Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to incorporate. The cheese adds a creamy and salty element that complements the garlic and parsley flavors beautifully.
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Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates and finish with a sprinkle of fresh ground pepper for added zing and visual appeal. Serve immediately while hot, ensuring each plate receives a generous portion of the flavorful garlic sauce.
Additional Tips
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Variations: This recipe is highly adaptable. You can add sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables to elevate it into a more substantial meal.
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Garnish: For a touch of freshness, garnish with additional chopped parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to refresh the pasta.
Conclusion
Angel Hair Pasta in Garlic Sauce stands out as a versatile and quick dish that caters to various tastes and preferences. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or enhanced with additional ingredients, its straightforward preparation and robust flavors make it a favorite among those looking to create a satisfying and flavorful dish in minimal time. Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, this recipe exemplifies how simplicity can be truly delicious.
