Angel Hair With Special Sauce
Angel hair pasta topped with a flavorful tomato and chicken broth sauce, enhanced with basil and seasonings—perfect for quick, light meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat chicken broth in a medium saucepan and add tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Add sweet basil, salt, and freshly ground pepper to the sauce.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and add it to the boiling sauce to thicken.
- Cook angel hair pasta according to package directions.
- Drain the pasta but do not rinse, then serve with the sauce. Cooked meatballs can also be added to the sauce if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or diced onions to the broth at the beginning. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or use diced canned tomatoes if pasta style tomatoes aren't available. If you're looking to save time, pre-cooked chicken or store-bought meatballs can be added directly to the sauce. This dish can also be enhanced with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the angel hair with special sauce warm, garnished with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider a glass of white wine or sparkling water to complement the flavors. You can also browse more Italian recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta can be stored separately to prevent it from becoming mushy. To reheat, warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Reheat the pasta briefly in boiling water or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Angel Hair With Special Sauce contains roughly 47 calories, with 0g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1748mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different pasta types, such as spaghetti or linguine, if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions, as cooking times may vary between pasta shapes.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply cook the pasta fresh and heat the sauce on the stove until warmed through for the best texture.
What can I add to the sauce for extra flavor?
To enhance the sauce, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or stir in some cooked protein like chicken or shrimp. This not only adds flavor but also makes the dish more filling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).