Are you craving a quick, easy, and healthy vegetarian dinner? Look no further! This angel hair pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to impress guests. It's a delicious blend of fresh flavors and textures, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this simple yet satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the Vegetables: Add the sliced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
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Combine Everything: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to combine. If the sauce seems too dry, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water.
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Season and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper to taste. If using, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Angel Hair Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly, so keep a close eye on it to prevent it from becoming mushy. Al dente is the key!
- Use fresh ingredients: The flavor of this dish is greatly enhanced by using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Adjust the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as spinach, mushrooms, or yellow squash.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest adds brightness and freshness.
Variations:
- Add protein: Toss in some cooked chickpeas, white beans, or grilled halloumi cheese for a heartier meal.
- Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta cheese for a richer sauce.
- Pesto pasta: Substitute the fresh basil with pesto for a vibrant and flavorful twist. This is a quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. Nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's a light and delicious option for a healthy meal. Calorie count is approximately 300-350 calories per serving.
This angel hair pasta recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas or a simple yet impressive meal for any occasion. Enjoy!