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.
Ingredients
- 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
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.
Heat the Olive Oil
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and warm gently. Do not let the oil smoke.
Cook the Garlic
- Add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about one minute. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Garlic should smell fragrant.
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.
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.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with tomato mixture.
Add Butter and Lemon
- Add butter and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently until butter melts and coats the pasta smoothly.
Add Basil and Cheese
- Turn off heat. Add fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently until everything is combined.
Serve Immediately
- Transfer pasta to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra basil and cheese. Serve warm and enjoy fresh flavors.
Notes
- 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.