Angel Hair Pasta with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh basil: A Quick, Delicious Meal for Any Occasion
Angel Hair Pasta is the epitome of simplicity and elegance in the world of pasta. With its delicate, thin strands, it cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sauces. Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or a rich, indulgent dish, Angel Hair Pasta has you covered. This recipe is not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your tastes. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this delicious dish at home!
Ingredients for Angel Hair Pasta Recipe
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to prepare your Angel Hair Pasta:
- Angel Hair Pasta – 8 oz (adjust based on the number of servings)
- Olive Oil – 2 tbsp
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Cherry Tomatoes – 1 cup, halved (optional for extra flavor)
- Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup, freshly grated
- Fresh Basil – A handful, chopped
- Salt – To taste
- Black Pepper – To taste
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for a bit of heat
- Lemon Juice – A squeeze, for brightness
Instructions for Angel Hair Pasta
- Cook the Angel Hair Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Angel Hair pasta and cook according to the package directions—usually about 2-3 minutes, as this pasta cooks quickly. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water for later.
- Sauté the Garlic: While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Tomatoes (Optional): If you’re adding cherry tomatoes, toss them into the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until they soften and release their juices.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once your pasta is drained, add it to the pan with garlic and tomatoes. Toss it gently to coat the pasta in the oil and garlic. If the pasta looks too dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Season and Serve: Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together until well combined. For a fresh, zesty finish, squeeze a little lemon juice over the top.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve your Angel Hair Pasta immediately, garnished with more Parmesan and fresh basil, if desired.
Recipe Notes
- Customize Your Pasta: Angel Hair Pasta is extremely versatile. You can add other ingredients like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed vegetables to elevate the dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. The flavors are brighter, and the dish will taste so much better.
- Pasta Water Trick: Don’t discard all the pasta water! A small amount of it can help create a silky, smooth sauce when added to the pan.
Time and Serving
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Serving Size: This recipe makes about 2 servings, but you can easily double it to serve more people.
Storage and Leftovers
If you have any leftover Angel Hair Pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so when reheating, consider adding a little extra olive oil or a splash of water to help loosen the noodles. You can also freeze the pasta for up to a month—just make sure to let it cool before storing.
Health Benefits of Angel Hair Pasta
While pasta is often considered a comfort food, Angel Hair Pasta can be a lighter option, especially when paired with fresh vegetables and lean proteins. Here are a few health benefits:
- Low in Calories: Angel Hair Pasta, being thin, typically has fewer calories per serving than other pasta varieties, making it a good choice for lighter meals.
- Rich in Carbohydrates: As a great source of carbohydrates, this pasta provides energy, making it an excellent pre-workout meal.
- High in Fiber: When you use whole wheat or gluten-free Angel Hair, it adds fiber to your meal, which is beneficial for digestion.
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Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect
- For a Creamier Version: Add a spoonful of cream or a splash of pasta sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
- Add a Protein: Grilled shrimp or pan-seared chicken make this dish more filling.
- Make it Spicy: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking if you prefer some heat in your pasta.
How to Serve
- As a Main Dish: Angel Hair Pasta is perfect on its own as a light main dish, especially if you’re pairing it with a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- With a Side: Serve it alongside a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large sauté pan for the sauce
- Strainer for draining the pasta
- Wooden spoon or tongs for tossing
- Cheese grater for fresh Parmesan
FAQs about Angel Hair Pasta Recipe
- Can I use any other pasta instead of Angel Hair?
- While Angel Hair works best for this recipe, you can substitute it with other types like spaghetti or linguine, though they might take a bit longer to cook.
- How can I make the pasta spicier?
- Add more red pepper flakes or a small pinch of cayenne pepper to give your Angel Hair Pasta a spicy kick.
- Can I prepare the pasta ahead of time?
- Yes, you can cook the pasta ahead of time, but it’s best to prepare the sauce fresh to maintain the best flavor and texture.
- What other sauces work well with Angel Hair Pasta?
- Angel Hair pairs wonderfully with a variety of sauces, such as marinara, Alfredo, pesto, or even a simple lemon and butter sauce.
Final Thoughts
Angel Hair Pasta is a light, quick, and versatile dish that can be customized in so many ways. Whether you go for the classic garlic and Parmesan or choose to add proteins and vegetables, it’s an easy recipe that can fit any meal. By following the simple instructions and tips in this article, you’ll have a perfect plate of Angel Hair Pasta ready in no time. So next time you’re looking for something light yet satisfying, give this recipe a try!
