Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Look no further! Capellini, a type of Italian thin spaghetti, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of delicious and creative recipes. From classic combinations to innovative twists, we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering capellini recipes to suit every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, our collection has got you covered.
From seafood-inspired dishes like Garlic Butter Capellini with Shrimp and Lemon Basil Capellini with Cherry Tomatoes, to hearty pasta bakes like Creamy Mushroom Capellini and Spicy Arrabbiata Capellini, there’s something for everyone. And let’s not forget the classics – our list also includes timeless favorites like Capellini Carbonara with Pancetta and Capellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken.
In this article, we’ll be diving into each of these 20 delicious capellini recipes, sharing the ins and outs of how to make them, and providing you with all the inspiration you need to take your pasta game to the next level. So grab a fork, get ready to cook up some culinary magic, and let’s dive in!
Garlic Butter Capellini with Shrimp
This recipe combines the simplicity of capellini pasta with the richness of garlic butter sauce, complemented by succulent shrimp. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook capellini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Toss cooked capellini pasta with garlic butter sauce, reserved pasta water, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Basil Capellini with Cherry Tomatoes
A light and refreshing pasta dish that combines the brightness of lemon, the subtlety of basil, and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and lemon juice. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked capellini to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato-basil mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Capellini
This recipe is a flavorful and creamy take on the classic Italian dish, featuring tender mushrooms and delicate capellini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the capellini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with mushroom sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Capellini
Spicy Arrabbiata Capellini Recipe: A Fiery Twist on Classic Italian Pasta
This Spicy Arrabbiata Capellini recipe adds a bold and spicy kick to the classic Italian dish. With the combination of cherry tomatoes, garlic, red pepper flakes, and crispy prosciutto, this pasta is sure to ignite your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked capellini to the skillet, tossing with tomato mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Top with crispy prosciutto and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini Carbonara with Pancetta
This classic Italian dish is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and satisfying pasta dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Meanwhile, cook the pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the cooked pancetta and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
This dish celebrates the freshness of spring with a delicate balance of seasonal vegetables, herbs, and light flavors. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delightful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook capellini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with reserved pasta cooking water and vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Capellini with Pine Nuts
This classic Italian recipe combines the creamy richness of pesto with the nutty flavor of pine nuts, all wrapped up in a delicate capellini pasta. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the toasted pine nuts and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
3. Add the basil pesto to the skillet and stir to combine with the pine nuts. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked capellini pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of Roman cuisine, and its simplicity belies its bold flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both spicy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini (angel hair pasta)
– 3-4 garlic cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the capellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Add the chili flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic mixture.
6. Add the cooked capellini to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic-chili sauce.
7. Season with salt to taste, then serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Clams and White Wine Sauce
Capellini with Clams and White Wine Sauce
A delicate and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender clams, fresh herbs, and a rich white wine sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini
– 1 lb freshly shelled clams
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook capellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking liquid.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic; cook 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add clams, white wine, and clam juice to the pan. Cook until clams open, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in butter until melted.
4. Combine cooked pasta, clam mixture, and reserved pasta cooking liquid. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Capellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet impressive dish, featuring tender grilled chicken paired with a creamy Capellini Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz Capellini pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook Capellini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Capellini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for a warm evening. The combination of delicate capellini, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and salty olives creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) capellini
– 1/2 cup (120g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup (30g) pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sliced olives to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine the cooked capellini, reserved pasta cooking liquid, and tomato-olive mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini in Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish, this creamy tomato vodka sauce capellini is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. With its light yet rich sauce and delicate pasta, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook capellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes, vodka-infused tomato sauce, and reserved pasta water. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked capellini and creamy tomato vodka sauce. Toss to coat, adding additional pasta water if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Capellini with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan
This elegant pasta dish combines the subtle sweetness of roasted garlic with the nutty flavor of Parmesan, all wrapped up in a delicate capellini package.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) capellini
– 3-4 garlic cloves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook capellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add roasted garlic and mash with a fork until smooth.
4. Add cooked capellini to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic sauce.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Capellini with Lemon Garlic Scallops
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of scallops with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic, served atop a bed of silky capellini pasta. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re cooked through.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss the cooked capellini with the scallop mixture. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Fresh Herbs and Olive Oil
This simple yet flavorful recipe showcases the beauty of fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini pasta
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, basil, and garlic.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the bowl with the herb mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Spicy Sausage and Peppers
This Italian-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of capellini pasta with spicy sausage and sweet peppers, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini pasta
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook capellini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Capellini with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
This classic Italian dish is a perfect summer meal, combining the delicate flavors of capellini pasta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they burst open, releasing their juices.
3. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked capellini pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
Elevate your dining experience with this decadent yet simple recipe featuring succulent lobster tails smothered in garlic butter, served atop delicate capellini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini pasta
– 2 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add lobster tails to the pan, season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the pan and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Toss cooked capellini with garlic butter sauce, then top with lobster tails.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Roasted Eggplant and Ricotta
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the delicate flavor of capellini with the richness of roasted eggplant and creamy ricotta. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) capellini
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup (240ml) ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook capellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with dried basil.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted eggplant, and ricotta mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Capellini with Truffle Oil and Wild Mushrooms
Elevate your pasta game with this elegant and flavorful recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 cup mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the white wine and cook until the liquid is almost completely reduced (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Stir in the truffle oil and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked capellini, mushroom mixture, and any remaining sauce. Toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for the perfect pasta dish to impress your friends or family? Look no further! This article presents 20 mouth-watering capellini recipes that cater to every occasion. From seafood dishes like Garlic Butter Capellini with Shrimp and Capellini with Clams and White Wine Sauce, to creamy sauces like Creamy Mushroom Capellini and Capellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing Capellini Primavera or a spicy kick from Capellini Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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