Angel Hair Pasta
Description
Angel Hair Pasta, known as 'Capellini' in Italian, is a variety of pasta that is shaped into long, thin strands. It is significantly thinner than spaghetti, often not more than 1-1.5 mm (0.04-0.06 inches) in diameter. Angel hair pasta is made of durum wheat semolina, water, and sometimes eggs, which contribute to its tender, fine texture. This delicate pasta cooks very quickly, usually in 2 to 4 minutes, making it a popular choice for fast and light meals. In various recipes, both metric (grams, liters) and imperial (ounces, cups, tablespoons) units are used to measure ingredients, ensuring that cooks around the world can follow along regardless of their preferred system.
Common uses
Angel Hair Pasta is commonly used in a variety of dishes where its fine texture complements light sauces, seafood, and fresh vegetables. It is also often served in broth-based soups or tossed with a touch of olive oil and herbs. Due to its quick cooking time, Angel Hair Pasta is an ideal choice for meals that require minimal preparation time.
Nutritional value
Calories
A 2-ounce (56-gram) serving of dry Angel Hair Pasta typically contains about 200 calories.
Protein
The same serving provides roughly 7 grams of protein, contributing to muscle maintenance and growth.
Fat
Angel Hair Pasta is generally low in fat, with less than 1 gram per serving.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are the primary macronutrient in pasta, with around 42 grams per 2-ounce serving.
Vitamins
Enriched versions of Angel Hair Pasta may contain added B vitamins, such as folic acid, thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin.
Minerals
Depending on the brand, pasta can be a source of iron and other minerals.
Health benefits
As a source of complex carbohydrates, Angel Hair Pasta provides sustained energy. The enriched versions also contribute to the intake of essential B vitamins and iron, which support metabolic functions and red blood cell production.
Potential risks
Those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease should avoid traditional wheat-based Angel Hair Pasta. Overconsumption may contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential weight gain. It is advisable to balance pasta intake with other food groups for a well-rounded diet.
Common recipes
Angel Hair Pasta is featured in recipes like Capellini Pomodoro, seafood pasta with light lemon sauces, and quick sautéed vegetable pasta dishes.
Cooking methods
The pasta is best cooked in boiling salted water for a few minutes until al dente, then drained and mixed with the desired sauce or ingredients.
Pairing with other ingredients
It pairs wonderfully with olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, light cream sauces, and a variety of protein sources such as chicken, shrimp, or clams.
Summary
Angel Hair Pasta is a versatile and delicate pasta variety that is enjoyed worldwide for its fine texture and quick cooking time. Its adaptability in a range of recipes makes it a staple in many culinary traditions, offering nutritional benefits as well as a delightful eating experience when prepared properly.