Angel Hair Pasta with Chile Lemon Oil and Arugula

It’s rare that I make pasta any other way than drenched with a beautiful red sauce. Sometimes, red sauce seems more fitting for the fall and winter seasons. Recently I look towards more simpler and lighter pasta dishes, without having to give up any flavor. And, with this pasta, you get quite a looker too.

Fine strands of pasta covered in parmesan cheese and flakes of panko bread crumbs offer richness, while the chile and lemon infused oil add depth and vibrancy. The addition of fresh arugula adds a peppery bite without adding any weight to the dish. Beautiful, delicious and perfect for a main course or to be served alongside a shrimp scampi, like I did when we had company over.

Angel Hair Pasta with Chile Lemon Oil and Arugula

slightly adapted from Shutterbean via Tyler Florence
Serves approximately 6 people

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus 2 tablespoons
• 2 cups panko bread crumbs
• salt and fresh cracked pepper
• 5 cloves garlic, slivered
• 1 tsp red chili flakes (I used 3 tsp because I like more heat. Adjust for your taste.)
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 pound angel hair pasta
• 6 cups arugula
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add two tablespoons of the olive oil. Then, add the breadcrumbs and stir to toast until golden brown. Add salt and pepper to mix in. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Wipe the pan clean and put it back on the stove over medium heat. Add the 1/2 cup olive oil, garlic and chile flakes. Cook for about 3 minutes to make sure the olive oil is infused with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Add the lemon zest and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the oil becomes fragrant. Remove from heat.
3. In a large pot, cook pasta to al dente (it shouldn’t take more than 3-4 minutes). Drain and place in a large bowl.
4. To the pasta, add the chili infused oil, lemon juice, arugula, toasted bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
5. Gently, using tongs, stir everything together.