Spicy Shrimp Pasta: A Classic Dish

 

Spicy shrimp pasta is a classic dish that is both delicious and easy to make. It is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal, or for a special occasion dinner. The pasta is tossed in a creamy and flavorful sauce that is made with shrimp, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

There are many different recipes for spicy shrimp pasta, but they all share a few common ingredients. The most important ingredient is the shrimp. The shrimp should be fresh and of good quality. It is important to cook the shrimp properly so that they are not overcooked or rubbery.

Another important ingredient is the sauce. The sauce is typically made with tomatoes, cream, and a variety of spices. The spices that are used in the sauce will vary depending on the recipe, but some common spices include garlic, onion, paprika, and chili flakes.

The pasta can be any type of pasta that you like. However, some popular choices for spicy shrimp pasta include spaghetti, penne, and linguine.

 

Ingredients

·         1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

·         1 tablespoon olive oil

·         1/2 onion, chopped

·         2 cloves garlic, minced

·         1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained

·         1/2 cup heavy cream

·         1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

·         1 teaspoon dried oregano

·         1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

·         1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

·         Salt and pepper to taste

·         1 pound pasta

 

Instructions

1.    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.

2.    Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3.    Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened about 2 minutes.

4.    Add the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

5.    Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

6.    Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.

7.    Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions.

8.    Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to combine.

9.    Serve immediately and enjoy!

 

Tips

·         For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.

·         If you don't have heavy cream, you can use milk or half-and-half instead.

·         You can also add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.

·         To make this dish ahead of time, cook the pasta and shrimp according to package directions. Then, toss the pasta and shrimp with the sauce and let cool completely. Store the pasta and shrimp in a separate container from the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to serve, reheat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the pasta and shrimp to the sauce and toss to combine. Heat through and serve immediately.

 

Variations

There are many different ways to vary this recipe for spicy shrimp pasta. Here are a few ideas:

·         Add different vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. To do this, simply chop the vegetables and add them to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.

·         Use different spices: You can use different spices in the sauce to change the flavor profile. For example, you could add cumin, paprika, or cayenne pepper.

·         Use different types of seafood: Instead of shrimp, you could use other types of seafood, such as scallops, crab, or mussels. To do this, simply cook the seafood according to package directions and add it to the sauce along with the shrimp.

·         Make it vegetarian: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and add more vegetables to the sauce. You could also add a plant-based protein, such as tofu or tempeh.

 

Serving suggestions

Spicy shrimp pasta can be served on its own, or with a side salad or crusty bread. Here are a few other serving suggestions:

·         Garlic bread: Garlic bread is a classic side dish for pasta dishes. To make garlic bread, simply slice a loaf of bread and brush each slice with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

·         Side salad: A side salad is a great way to add some freshness to your meal. To make a side salad, simply combine your favorite greens, vegetables, and dressing.

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cooking Time: 15 mins

Total Time: 30 mins

Author:  Asma Rasool