Shrimp Pasta
Indulge in the delightful flavors of shrimp pasta, a dish that beautifully marries succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich and aromatic sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to impress, this shrimp pasta will satisfy all cravings and elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately:
– Calories: 480
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 55g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes, simmer for another 3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain spaghetti and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and toss again.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice, such as linguine or fettuccine. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, omit the white wine and replace it with vegetable broth. For a lighter option, use zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
Serving and Pairings
This shrimp pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the shrimp may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery—cook just until pink.
- Don’t skip salting the pasta water; it enhances flavor.
- Using too much oil can make the dish greasy.
- Not letting the wine simmer can leave a raw taste.
- Forgetting to reserve some pasta water may affect sauce consistency.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking for even results.
What type of pasta works best with shrimp?
Spaghetti is a classic choice, but linguine, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta can also work well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped fresh chili peppers for extra heat.
Is shrimp pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it can be meal prepped, but it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separately to maintain texture.
Can I make this shrimp pasta without wine?
Absolutely! You can substitute wine with vegetable broth or simply omit it for a delicious flavor.
Conclusion
Shrimp pasta is a delectable dish that combines simplicity with elegance. With its quick preparation and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this meal with loved ones or savor it during a quiet evening at home. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, shrimp pasta is a dish that never disappoints.
Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti
- 300 g large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes, simmer for another 3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain spaghetti and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and toss again.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
