- Fresh basil leaves: 8 large leaves (hand-picked for optimal flavor)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (extra virgin recommended for health benefits)
- Salt: to taste (sea salt is a good choice as it has more minerals and natural flavors)
- Black pepper: freshly ground, to taste
- Red pepper flakes: optional, for added heat
- Lemon zest: from 1 lemon (adds freshness and brightness to the dish)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese (use low-lactose options if sensitive)
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### Angel Hair Pasta with Shrimp and Basil: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
#### Introduction
Angel hair pasta with shrimp and basil is a light yet flavorful dish that's perfect for any seafood lover. This recipe combines fresh angel hair pasta, succulent shrimp, and aromatic basil to create an unforgettable meal. Here’s how you can make it at home.
#### Ingredients
- 200g Angel Hair Pasta
- 150g Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves, chopped
- Juice of 1 Lemon
- 2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes for extra heat (optional)
#### Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp**
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the shrimp with salt, pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired, and lemon juice.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
**Step 2: Cook the Shrimp**
- Once hot, add the shrimp to the pan and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
**Step 3: Sauté the Garlic**
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
**Step 4: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions or until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking liquid.
**Step 5: Combine Ingredients**
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp with the angel hair pasta. Drizzle in the reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Add the chopped basil leaves and toss to incorporate. Season with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary.
**Step 6: Serve**
- Transfer the pasta mixture to serving plates and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves before serving.
#### Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ingredients like fresh angel hair pasta and shrimp for optimal flavor.
- Ensure you cook the shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking will make them tough.
- Adjust seasoning based on personal preference, adding more lemon juice or a bit of salt as needed.
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