Fried Angel Hair with Red onion and Tomatoes

Fried Angel Hair with Red Onion and Tomatoes Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Fried Angel Hair with Red Onion and Tomatoes recipe is a delicious and unique twist on traditional pasta dishes. The combination of crispy angel hair pasta with savory red onions and juicy tomatoes creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Italian pasta dishes, but with a modern twist. The idea of frying the pasta to create a crispy texture adds a new dimension to the dish, making it a fun and exciting way to enjoy pasta.

Ingredients

0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cup red onions, julienne
3 cup fresh tomatoes, peeled, seeded, diced
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 – 3 leaves fresh basil, chopped
1 (16 oz (454 g)) box Barilla™ angel hair
0.5 cup parmigiano cheese, grated, divided
2 tbsp butter

How to prepare

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
Sauté onions over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
Add tomatoes, basil, and 1 cup of water, then simmer.
Season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Set aside.
Cook pasta according to the directions.
Drain and toss with half of the sauce and parmigiano cheese.
Adjust seasonings and allow the pasta to cool.
Melt butter in a non-stick pan.
Add the pasta and fry until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
Invert onto a plate or cutting board.
Return the pasta to the pan to cook the other side.
Cook until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Invert onto a serving platter.
Pour the reserved sauce over the pasta cake and serve.

Variations

Add cooked shrimp or chicken for added protein.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a different flavor profile.
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when frying.

- Be sure to season the sauce well to enhance the flavors of the dish.

- Use a non-stick pan when frying the pasta to prevent sticking and ensure a crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a main course with a side salad or garlic bread. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling

- Sautéing

- Frying

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

- Substitute cherry tomatoes for regular tomatoes for a sweeter flavor.

- Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- The pasta can be cooked and tossed with the sauce ahead of time, then fried just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the fried pasta cake on a large platter garnished with fresh basil leaves. - Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, place the pasta cake in a non-stick pan and heat over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

380

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 6g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 10g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (parmigiano cheese, butter)

Summary

This Fried Angel Hair with Red Onion and Tomatoes recipe is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and delicious choice for a meal.

Summary

This Fried Angel Hair with Red Onion and Tomatoes recipe is a delicious and unique twist on traditional pasta dishes. With a crispy texture and savory flavors, it is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of New York. I was always eager to learn new recipes and expand my culinary skills, so when I heard about a small Italian restaurant that served the most amazing Fried Angel Hair with Red onion and Tomatoes, I knew I had to try to recreate it at home.

I remember walking into the restaurant, the aroma of garlic and tomatoes filling the air. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel right at home. I ordered the Fried Angel Hair dish and savored every bite. The crispy angel hair pasta combined with the sweetness of the red onions and the tanginess of the tomatoes was a flavor explosion in my mouth.

After finishing my meal, I asked the chef if he would be willing to share his secret recipe with me. To my surprise, he agreed and even invited me back to the kitchen to watch him make it. I watched in awe as he skillfully tossed the angel hair pasta in a hot pan, creating the perfect crunch. He then added the red onions and tomatoes, allowing them to caramelize and release their natural flavors.

As I left the restaurant that day, I couldn't wait to rush home and try my hand at making this delicious dish. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in my own kitchen. I carefully followed the chef's instructions, tossing the angel hair pasta until it was golden brown and crispy. The smell of garlic and onions filled the air, reminding me of that cozy Italian restaurant.

When I finally sat down to eat, I was transported back to that moment in the restaurant. The flavors were just as I remembered - the sweetness of the red onions, the acidity of the tomatoes, and the crunch of the fried angel hair pasta. I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a family favorite for years to come.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times for family and friends. Each time, it brings back memories of that day in the Italian restaurant and the kind chef who shared his secret recipe with me. I have since added my own twist to the dish, sometimes adding in extra herbs or spices to make it my own.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that first time I made Fried Angel Hair with Red onion and Tomatoes, I am filled with gratitude for all the wonderful recipes and culinary experiences I have had over the years. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am grateful to have learned so much from the various places and people I have encountered along the way.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a delicious and comforting meal, I urge you to give this recipe a try. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. And who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon your own culinary adventure just like I did all those years ago. Bon appétit!