When it comes to cooking on a busy weeknight, quick and easy recipes are a must. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or creativity. In this article, we’ll show you how to elevate the humble capellini pasta dish with 20 delicious and simple recipes that will become your new go-to’s.
From classic combinations like garlic butter and lemon zest to more adventurous options like shrimp and cherry tomatoes, these quick capellini recipes are perfect for busy families or individuals looking to spice up their meal routine. And the best part? Each recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into even the most hectic of schedules.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of our top 20 capellini recipes, providing you with inspiration and ideas for your next quick and delicious meal. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the benefits of a stress-free dinner time!
Garlic Butter Capellini with Lemon Zest
This recipe combines the simplicity of capellini with the brightness of lemon zest and the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the cooked capellini and garlic butter mixture. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini Pomodoro with Fresh Basil
Savor the sweet taste of summer with this light and refreshing Italian classic. This recipe showcases the simplicity and elegance of fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic on a bed of delicate capellini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) capellini pasta
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (15g) extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup or 6g)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (about 1/4 cup or 30g)
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 medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta, tomato sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
5. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Capellini Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy dish, featuring tender capellini noodles smothered in a decadent mushroom-infused Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook capellini noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked noodles and mushroom sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Capellini Aglio e Olio
This spicy twist on the classic Capellini Aglio e Olio is a quick and easy recipe that combines the simplicity of spaghetti with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini (angel hair) pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves, 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-low heat. Add the garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add the red pepper flakes and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet and stir to create a creamy sauce.
5. Add the cooked capellini to the skillet, tossing to coat with the spicy garlic sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Shrimp and Cherry Tomatoes
This Italian-inspired dish combines the elegance of capellini pasta with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the savory flavor of succulent shrimp. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 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 sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
5. Combine cooked capellini, reserved pasta water, and shrimp-tomato mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Capellini with Pine Nuts
Pesto Capellini with Pine Nuts: A Light and Flavorful Italian Dish
This classic Italian recipe combines the richness of pine nuts with the brightness of basil to create a simple yet elegant pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Pesto Capellini with Pine Nuts is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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 food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until smooth, adding olive oil as needed.
3. Add the pesto sauce to the cooked capellini, tossing to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini Carbonara with Pancetta
A creamy, rich, and indulgent Italian dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. This recipe uses pancetta instead of bacon for a more nuanced flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 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 pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pancetta to the egg mixture and stir well.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the egg mixture in small increments, stirring constantly until smooth.
6. Add the cooked capellini pasta to the egg mixture and toss until coated.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Capellini with Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Thin strands of capellini pasta are tossed with zesty lemon sauce, savory grilled chicken, and pungent garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 ounces capellini pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with the lemon sauce until coated.
5. Combine cooked capellini and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Capellini Primavera with Spring Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this light and refreshing Capellini Primavera, featuring a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as snap peas, carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 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 the capellini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. If using wine and broth, add to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Capellini with Burrata
This Italian-inspired recipe combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the creaminess of burrata cheese to create a light and refreshing pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini pasta
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz burrata cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves and cooked capellini pasta into the tomato mixture. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
4. Divide the pasta among plates. Top with crumbled burrata cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Clams and White Wine Sauce
Capellini with Clams and White Wine Sauce Recipe
This classic Italian dish combines the delicate flavors of fresh clams, white wine, garlic, and herbs to create a light and refreshing pasta dish. With its simplicity and elegance, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 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 pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add clams, white wine, and clam juice to the skillet. Cover with a lid and simmer for 3-5 minutes or until clams are cooked through.
4. Stir in reserved pasta cooking liquid and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the capellini tossed with the clam sauce and top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Oil Capellini with Parmesan
Elevate your pasta game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the rich flavors of truffle oil and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, 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. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the capellini.
3. In a large skillet, combine truffle oil and reserved pasta cooking water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked capellini to the skillet and toss with the truffle-Parmesan sauce until well coated.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Spinach and Garlic Cream
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of capellini pasta with the richness of garlic cream and the nutrients of spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon 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 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. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked capellini pasta with the garlic cream sauce. Toss to coat, adding grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage Capellini Arrabbiata
This recipe combines the spicy kick of Italian sausage with the bold flavors of arrabbiata sauce, all wrapped up in a delicate capellini pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb capellini pasta
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sausage mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Capellini with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of roasted red peppers blended with garlic and herbs, tossed with delicate capellini pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) capellini pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– 1 tsp (5ml) smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is charred and blistered.
3. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
4. Cook capellini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red pepper pieces, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
6. Toss cooked capellini with the roasted red pepper sauce and top with chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Capellini with Grilled Salmon
This refreshing pasta dish pairs the delicate flavor of grilled salmon with the subtle aroma of fresh herbs, creating a perfect combination for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook capellini pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, dill, and garlic.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the herbed oil mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve grilled salmon on top of pasta, with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Capellini with Walnut Pesto and Arugula
This Italian-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of capellini pasta with the richness of walnut pesto and the peppery bite of arugula. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz capellini pasta
– 1/2 cup walnut pesto (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 cups arugula, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 saucepan, warm the walnut pesto over low heat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, warmed pesto, and chopped arugula. Toss to combine.
4. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional arugula if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives
This light and flavorful pasta dish combines the tender texture of capellini with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) capellini
– 1/4 cup (30g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup (30g) pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) 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 water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sliced olives to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Combine the cooked capellini with the tomato-olive mixture, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Capellini with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. The combination of tangy lemon, creamy ricotta, and fragrant herbs will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini pasta
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 liquid before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and juice. Mix well to combine.
3. Add chopped parsley and olive oil to the ricotta mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and ricotta mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss until pasta is well coated.
5. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Capellini with Mussels and Garlic Butter
This Italian-inspired dish is a perfect blend of tender pasta, succulent mussels, and rich garlic butter. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz capellini pasta
– 2 cups mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 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 according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the mussels to the skillet and pour in the white wine (if using). Cover with a lid and cook for 3-5 minutes until the mussels are opened.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Toss the cooked capellini with the mussel mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these quick and delicious capellini recipes! From classic combinations like garlic butter and lemon zest, to creamy alfredo and spicy aglio e olio, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing shrimp with cherry tomatoes or combining pancetta with a rich carbonara sauce. For a lighter option, go for a spring-inspired primavera or a simple yet flavorful pesto with pine nuts. Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy and bright or rich and indulgent, these 20 recipes are sure to become new favorites.