Description
Discover the ultimate quick and flavorful angel hair pasta recipe. Learn how to make this family-favorite dish with garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients
1 pound angel hair pasta (or capellini)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
6–8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth (low sodium)
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1- Boil Pasta to Perfection: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rapid, rolling boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package directions, typically a mere 2-4 minutes, or until it reaches that ideal al dente bite.
2- Sauté Golden Aromatics: While your pasta is on its lightning-fast journey, heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for just 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic turns fragrant and achieves a beautiful, lightly golden hue.
3- Deglaze for Depth: Carefully pour in the vegetable or chicken broth into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, using a wooden spoon or spatula to lovingly scrape up any browned bits that have clung to the bottom of the pan.
4- Combine & Create Magic: Drain the cooked angel hair pasta immediately, making sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the simmering garlic broth mixture. Now, introduce the unsalted butter, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and the bright fresh lemon juice.
5- Toss to Silky Perfection: Using a pair of tongs, toss the pasta vigorously and continuously with the sauce until it is beautifully coated. Watch as the cheese and butter melt seamlessly, creating a luscious, creamy sauce that lovingly clings to every delicate noodle.
6- Season & Serve Immediately: Taste the pasta and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately in warm bowls, perhaps topped with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a vibrant sprig of fresh basil for an inviting presentation.
Notes
- The Golden Rule: Don’t Overcook Angel Hair: Very delicate, can turn mushy in seconds.
- Reserved Pasta Water is Liquid Gold: Helps emulsify sauce for silky texture.
- Amplify the Spice: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
- Elevate with Protein: Add sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, cannellini beans, or chickpeas.
- Make it Vegan/Dairy-Free: Skip butter/Parmesan; use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
- Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently with broth/water.
- Craving More Noodle Adventures? Links to Fettuccine Alfredo, Homemade Pappardelle, Easy Spaghetti Recipe, and Noodle Types and Varieties.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: ~450
- Fat: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Protein: ~15g
Keywords: angel hair pasta recipe, quick pasta, garlic herb pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, Parmesan pasta, vegetarian pasta