Capellini Pomodoro is a classic Italian dish celebrated for its simplicity and fresh flavors, making it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. This recipe from Love with Recipes embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, combining wholesome ingredients to create a dish that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to savor.
Overview
Capellini Pomodoro, also known as Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Sauce, features thin angel hair pasta delicately coated in a vibrant tomato and basil sauce. The dish is enriched with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, infusing each bite with layers of savory goodness. With a total preparation time of just 45 minutes, including 30 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, it’s a relatively quick recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutritional value.
Ingredients
Let’s delve into the ingredients that bring this Capellini Pomodoro recipe to life:
- Garlic Cloves (4): Fresh garlic cloves are finely chopped or minced to infuse the olive oil with a robust, aromatic flavor base.
- Plum Tomatoes (2): Ripe plum tomatoes are diced to create a chunky, textured tomato sauce that forms the heart of this dish.
- Fresh Basil (1 bunch): Fragrant basil leaves are torn or chopped to add a fresh, herbaceous note to the pasta sauce.
- Olive Oil (1/3 cup): Extra virgin olive oil serves as the cooking medium, imparting richness and depth to the sauce.
- Fresh Parmesan Cheese (3 oz): Grated Parmesan cheese is added both during cooking and as a finishing touch to enhance the pasta’s creaminess and savory profile.
- Angel Hair Pasta (12 oz): Also known as capellini, this delicate pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): A pinch of black pepper adds a subtle kick and balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition-conscious cooks will appreciate the balance of flavors and health benefits in this Capellini Pomodoro recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 307.9 per serving, providing energy without excess.
- Fat: 13 grams, primarily from heart-healthy olive oil and cheese.
- Saturated Fat: 3.2 grams, a moderate amount that adds richness to the dish.
- Cholesterol: 9.4 mg, contributing to the dish’s creamy texture without excessive dietary impact.
- Sodium: 172.7 mg, offering a controlled amount of seasoning.
- Carbohydrates: 37.4 grams, providing a source of sustained energy.
- Fiber: 2.8 grams, aiding in digestion and providing a feeling of fullness.
- Sugar: 4.2 grams, naturally occurring from tomatoes.
- Protein: 10.9 grams, contributing to the meal’s satiety factor.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step process to create this delectable Capellini Pomodoro:
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by chopping the garlic cloves and dicing the plum tomatoes. Tear or chop the fresh basil leaves and grate the Parmesan cheese if it’s not already grated.
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Cook Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant and just starts to turn white, being careful not to burn it.
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Add Tomatoes and Pepper: Stir in the diced plum tomatoes and black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until the tomatoes are heated through and begin to break down slightly, releasing their juices. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
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Incorporate Basil and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Add the torn basil leaves and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the tomato mixture. Toss gently to combine, allowing the residual heat to wilt the basil slightly and melt the cheese.
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Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot of boiling salted water until al dente, typically about 4-5 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of the cooking water.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce.
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Serve: Immediately transfer the Capellini Pomodoro to serving plates. Sprinkle each serving with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Capellini Pomodoro is best served fresh and hot, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread to complete the meal. For a special touch, accompany it with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon.
Conclusion
With its delightful combination of fresh ingredients and quick preparation time, Capellini Pomodoro exemplifies the essence of Italian cuisine: simple, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe from Love with Recipes promises to elevate your dining experience with every forkful. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and savory Parmesan cheese in every bite of this timeless dish.
