Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

The Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe is light, fresh and full of flavor. It is perfect for busy weeknights. Angel hair pasta cooks very fast.

The sauce is simple but delicious. If you want to learn How to make Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe, this guide will help you.

The Ingredients for Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe are simple and easy to find. This pasta dish feels elegant but is very easy to prepare. It is fresh, comforting, and satisfying.

My Experience With This Recipe

The first time I made this pasta, I was surprised how quick it was. The sauce came together in minutes.

The angel hair pasta was soft but not heavy. The fresh garlic and tomatoes added bright flavor.

My family loved the light texture. Now I make this Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe often. It is perfect when I need a fast and tasty dinner.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe
• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Calories: 380 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Serving bowl

Ingredients You Need for Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

• 12 ounces angel hair pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add angel hair pasta and cook for 3–4 minutes. Stir gently. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat the Olive Oil

Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and warm gently. Do not let the oil smoke.

3. Cook the Garlic

Add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about one minute. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Garlic should smell fragrant.

4. Add the Tomatoes

Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes until tomatoes soften slightly.

5. Add Red Pepper Flakes

If you like mild heat, add red pepper flakes. Stir gently to mix. This adds extra flavor without overpowering the dish.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with tomato mixture.

7. Add Butter and Lemon

Add butter and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently until butter melts and coats the pasta smoothly.

8. Add Basil and Cheese

Turn off heat. Add fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently until everything is combined.

9. Serve Immediately

Transfer pasta to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra basil and cheese. Serve warm and enjoy fresh flavors.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overcook angel hair pasta.
• Salt the pasta water well.
• Use fresh basil for best flavor.
• Add pasta water if sauce feels dry.
• Use good quality olive oil.
• Serve immediately for best texture.
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if roasting tomatoes.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	380 kcal
Carbohydrates	52 g
Protein	12 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	320 mg

Serving Suggestions

The Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe is perfect as a main dish. Serve it hot and fresh. Add extra Parmesan cheese on top.

You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for more protein. A simple green salad pairs beautifully with this pasta. It is great for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Best Sides To Serve With

Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad or roasted vegetables. Grilled asparagus or sautéed spinach works well.

You can also pair it with baked salmon or grilled chicken. Light side dishes complement this pasta perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.

Add a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs about Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

1. Can I use regular spaghetti instead of angel hair?

Yes, you can use spaghetti. However, angel hair cooks faster and feels lighter. Adjust cooking time according to pasta type.

2. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even salmon works well. Cook protein separately and mix with pasta before serving.

3. Why is my pasta sticky?

Angel hair cooks quickly and can stick together. Stir during boiling and add a little olive oil after draining if needed.

4. Can I roast the tomatoes?

Yes, roasting tomatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes adds deeper flavor. It makes the sauce slightly sweeter.

5. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, skip butter and Parmesan cheese. Use olive oil and nutritional yeast instead. The flavor will still be fresh and delicious.

Conclusion

The Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe is simple, fresh and delicious. Now you know How to make Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe step by step.

The Ingredients for Barefoot Contessa Angel Hair Pasta Recipe are easy to find and affordable. This light pasta dish is perfect for quick dinners and family meals. Try it once and enjoy its fresh, comforting flavor anytime.