Angel hair with balsamic tomatoes recipe is an Italian pasta dish that is easy to prepare, yet it is delicious and satisfying. It has a delicate balance of flavours, making it perfect for any time of the day, any season and any occasion. The dish features thin angel hair pasta noodles that are coated in a light but flavourful sauce made with ripe and tangy balsamic tomatoes, fresh garlic, and aromatic herbs. The recipe is versatile, and you can add your twist by including your favourite protein or vegetables to it.
The History
Angel hair pasta is known as Capellini or "fine hair" in Italian. The pasta originates from Naples, a southern Italian city famous for its cuisine. The dish later gained popularity in the United States in the early 20th century when Italian immigrants introduced it to American culture. The dish became a classic as it is quick to prepare and suited to American's busy lifestyles.
Balsamic vinegar, on the other hand, originated in the Modena region in Italy, more than a thousand years ago. It's a dark, syrupy vinegar made from grapes that have been boiled down and aged in oak barrels for several years. The vinegar was initially a luxury item and was reserved for the wealthy. Today, however, it is widely available, and its use has spread around the world.
Ingredients
The angel hair with balsamic tomatoes recipe requires the following key ingredients:
Angel hair pasta:
Also known as capellini, which is a thin, delicate, and long pasta.
Balsamic tomatoes:
Tomatoes are the star of this dish. Vine-ripe tomatoes are preferred, although canned tomatoes can work in a pinch.
Garlic:
Garlic will give the dish an extra flavourful kick.
Balsamic vinegar:
This vinegar is key to the recipe's taste and balances out the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Herbs:
Fresh or dried basil adds a fresh and fragrant taste that complements the tomatoes nicely.
Salt and pepper:
Will help to season and enhance the flavours of the dish.
Preparation
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the angel hair pasta according to the instructions on the packet, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Roast the tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Cut the tomatoes in half and place them on the tray. Drizzle them with a little bit of balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chopped garlic. Roast the tomatoes for 20-25 minutes or until they start to turn brown and shrink in size.
3. Make the pasta sauce: Once the tomatoes are roasted, place them in a pan over medium heat. Add the rest of the balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and fresh chopped basil or dry herbs. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine the sauce and pasta: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to it and toss to coat the pasta.
5. Garnish and serve: Plate the pasta, drizzle with a bit more balsamic vinegar, and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
Variations
While the recipe is perfect as it is, you can add more ingredients to enhance its flavour or make it more filling depending on your preference. The following variations are some suggestions:
Grilled chicken:
Grilled sliced chicken breast is a perfect addition to the dish. You can top your pasta with the chicken, and it will add an extra layer of flavour and make the dish more filling.
Mushrooms:
Adding sautéed mushrooms to the pasta dish will give it an excellent earthy taste and a meaty texture.
Spinach:
Spinach is a great way to add some greens to your menu. You can sauté the spinach in garlic and toss it with the pasta for a healthy and flavourful meal.
Shrimp:
Adding sautéed garlic shrimp to this pasta dish will make it a perfect seafood meal.
Conclusion
Angel hair with balsamic tomatoes recipe is a simple yet exquisite dish that you can prepare quickly, especially on busy weekdays. It is perfect for those who love tomatoes, and the balsamic vinegar adds a tangy and delicious flavour to the recipe. The recipe is flexible, and you can add additional ingredients to make it even tastier or more substantial. Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of what angel hair with balsamic tomatoes recipe is and provides you with the steps to prepare it.
Angel Hair with Balsamic Tomatoes: Valuable Tips
Angel hair with balsamic tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tangy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and sweet balsamic vinegar creates a dish that is both light and satisfying. Here are some valuable tips to help you make the perfect angel hair with balsamic tomatoes recipe:
TIP #1: Use Fresh Ingredients
The key to making an excellent angel hair with balsamic tomatoes recipe is using fresh ingredients. Tomatoes should be ripe and juicy while garlic should be fragrant but not overpowering. Choose high-quality olive oil and use freshly grated parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
TIP #2: Cook the Pasta al Dente
Angel hair pasta cooks quickly, and it's essential to cook it al dente, which means it should still have a bit of bite to it. Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture, which will ruin the dish's overall texture. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package, and keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't overcook.
TIP #3: Season the Tomatoes Well
The tomatoes are the star of this dish, and it's essential to season them well. Use a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to bring out their flavors. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
TIP #4: Infuse Olive Oil with Garlic
Infusing the olive oil with garlic adds a lovely depth of flavor to the dish. Heat the olive oil over low heat with a few smashed cloves of garlic until the garlic is fragrant. Remove the garlic before adding the tomatoes to the pan.
TIP #5: Reduce the Balsamic Vinegar
Reducing the balsamic vinegar concentrates its flavors, making it a more potent addition to the dish. Simmer the balsamic vinegar on low heat until it reduces and thickens slightly. Be careful not to burn it as it can turn bitter.
TIP #6: Use Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes work well in this dish as they have a high sugar content and hold their shape when cooked. You can use other types of tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes are a safer and more reliable option.
TIP #7: Garnish with Fresh Basil
Fresh basil adds a lovely freshness and herbaceousness to the dish. Sprinkle some chopped fresh basil over the dish just before serving to add a pop of color and extra flavor.
TIP #8: Serve Immediately
Angel hair with balsamic tomatoes is best served immediately after cooking. The pasta will continue to absorb the sauce, and it can become dry and clumpy if left to sit for too long. Serve with a sprinkling of parmesan cheese and some crusty bread on the side.
In conclusion, angel hair with balsamic tomatoes is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Follow these valuable tips to make the perfect dish that is both light and satisfying. Remember to use fresh ingredients, cook the pasta al dente, season the tomatoes well, infuse the olive oil with garlic, reduce the balsamic vinegar, use cherry tomatoes, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
