Indulge in a culinary adventure with our sensational Shrimp and Garlic Pasta recipe! Bursting with flavors of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and vibrant herbs, this dish is a celebration of simplicity and sophistication. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or planning a special dinner for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the art of creating this mouthwatering seafood pasta dish.
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz whole wheat (multigrain) angel hair pasta
For the Shrimp and Garlic Sauce:
- 1 1/2 lb medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup Progresso® reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups cherry-style tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the whole wheat angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the finely chopped onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and incorporate any browned bits from the bottom.
- Enhance with Flavors: Sprinkle in the red chili flakes for a touch of heat and flavor. Adjust the amount according to your preference.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Spinach: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, followed by the fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes begin to soften.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
- Final Touch: Add the cooked whole wheat angel hair pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything evenly in the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta for the whole wheat angel hair pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
- Vegetarian Variation: Omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish. You can also add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes according to your preference for heat. For a milder version, reduce the amount, or omit them altogether.
- Creamy Option: For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream at the end of cooking and simmer until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning and cooking.
Q: Can I use other types of pasta? A: Absolutely! While angel hair pasta works beautifully in this recipe, you can use any pasta variety you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Store the cooked pasta and cooked shrimp separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and reheat gently before combining with the sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Substitute the whole wheat angel hair pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a keto-friendly option. Use a low-carb chicken broth and omit the white wine to reduce carbs further.
- Low-Carb Version: Opt for a low-carb pasta alternative such as shirataki noodles or konjac pasta. Be mindful of the carb content in the chicken broth and white wine, and adjust quantities accordingly.
Elevate your dinner table with the irresistible flavors of our Shrimp and Garlic Pasta recipe. From succulent shrimp to aromatic garlic and a medley of vibrant vegetables, this dish is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey that promises to delight and inspire!
