Imagine twirling your fork into a steaming plate of angel hair pasta, where each delicate strand is coated with a rich, peppery olive oil sauce that dances with intense flavor. This Black Pepper Angel Hair Pasta isn't just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet masterpiece. Whether you're a busy professional craving a quick dinner or a home chef looking to impress, this recipe promises restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of angel hair pasta
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 teaspoons of freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of angel hair pasta, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of freshly cracked black pepper, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Once the water is boiling, add the angel hair pasta. Stir gently to prevent the strands from sticking together. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, typically about 3-4 minutes, until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- As the oil heats, measure out 2 teaspoons of freshly cracked black pepper. Add the black pepper to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to infuse the oil.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Immediately transfer the drained pasta to the skillet with the olive oil and black pepper. Toss the pasta in the skillet to coat it evenly with the oil and pepper mixture.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a little bit of the reserved pasta cooking water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and combines with the pasta.
- Season with additional salt to taste, if desired. Toss again to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- Serve the black pepper angel hair pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for the most vibrant flavor—pre-ground pepper simply can't compare.
- Reserve pasta water before draining; its starchy nature helps create a silky, clingy sauce.
- Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain the perfect texture—angel hair cooks quickly, so watch it closely.
- Sautéing the black pepper in olive oil releases its essential oils, intensifying the overall flavor profile.
- Toss the pasta in the skillet immediately after draining to ensure even coating and heat distribution.
- For extra richness, consider using high-quality Parmigiano-Reggiano instead of standard Parmesan.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the pasta at its peak temperature and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg
