Angel hair pasta, with its ethereal texture, provides the perfect canvas for a vibrant array of flavors. This recipe elevates the simplicity of angel hair pasta by pairing it with the subtly tangy and pleasantly firm bite of artichoke hearts. The result is a dish that's both elegant and satisfying, ideal for a light lunch or a sophisticated dinner.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 2 and can easily be scaled up. Gather these ingredients before you begin:
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta
- 14 ounces artichoke hearts, quartered (canned or marinated, drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
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Prepare the Pasta: Cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
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Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Add the Artichoke Hearts: Add the quartered artichoke hearts to the skillet and sauté for 3-5 minutes, allowing them to gently brown and soften slightly.
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Deglaze (Optional): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the wine to reduce slightly, creating a flavorful sauce base.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet with the artichoke hearts. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the garlic oil and artichoke flavors. Add a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
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Season and Finish: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a brighter, more citrusy flavor profile.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for an intense, umami punch. Chop them finely and add them to the skillet with the artichoke hearts.
- Shrimp or Chicken: For a heartier meal, add cooked shrimp or chicken to the pasta.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs such as basil or oregano.
Why This Recipe Works:
This Angel Hair Pasta with Artichoke Hearts recipe is a winner because of its simplicity, speed, and deliciousness. The delicate pasta perfectly complements the artichoke hearts, and the few simple steps lead to a restaurant-quality dish without the fuss. The recipe is easily adaptable to your taste preferences and available ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
About the Author:
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This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. Enjoy!
