Giant Eagle
Angel Hair Pasta
What it is
Angel hair pasta, also known as capellini, is a type of pasta characterized by its extremely thin strands. It is made from durum wheat semolina and water, similar to other dried pasta shapes. The fine thickness of angel hair allows it to cook very quickly, making it a convenient choice for weeknight meals. It is a versatile pasta that pairs well with a variety of sauces and ingredients.
How people cook with it
This delicate pasta is perfect for light and quick dishes. It absorbs flavors beautifully and cooks in just a few minutes.
- Tossed with pesto
- Served with seafood
- Mixed with fresh vegetables
- Lightly coated in olive oil
To cook angel hair pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and stir gently to prevent sticking. Because of its thinness, angel hair cooks very rapidly, typically in 3 to 5 minutes. It is important to cook it al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta immediately once it reaches the desired tenderness. It is best to serve it right away with your chosen sauce or preparation.
How it differs from similar foods
Angel hair pasta is significantly thinner than spaghetti or linguine. This difference in thickness affects its cooking time, making it much faster to prepare. The delicate strands also absorb sauces differently, often requiring lighter, less chunky preparations to avoid overwhelming the pasta.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a quick and elegant pasta option will appreciate angel hair.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused dried angel hair pasta in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. This will help to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry. Properly stored, it can last for a long time.