Seafood Pasta
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of seafood pasta, a dish that captures the essence of the ocean in every bite. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, tender calamari, and fresh herbs with pasta, creating a delightful culinary experience. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this seafood pasta will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious meal!
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or fettuccine
- 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 100g calamari, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 100ml white wine
- 200ml heavy cream
- 100g cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving of this seafood pasta contains approximately 550 calories, 25g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 35g of fat. This is based on a serving size of 1 plate.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and calamari to the pan, cooking until shrimp turns pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine, simmering for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream, mixing well to combine.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they soften.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it is well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute shrimp with scallops or use any firm white fish instead of calamari. For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream.
Serving and Pairings
Seafood pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine. Garlic bread or a light bruschetta can also complement the meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Freezing is not recommended as the seafood may lose its texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta, which can become mushy.
- Not seasoning the water when boiling pasta.
- Cooking the seafood too long, leading to toughness.
- Using low-quality seafood which may affect flavor.
- Skipping the wine, which adds depth to the sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh seafood for the best flavor.
- Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill for varied flavors.
FAQs
What type of pasta is best for seafood pasta?
Any long pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, is ideal for seafood pasta as it holds the sauce well and complements the seafood.
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, frozen seafood can be used. Just ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.
How can I make seafood pasta healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using whole grain pasta, reducing the cream, and increasing the vegetable content, such as adding spinach or zucchini.
What wine pairs well with seafood pasta?
A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with seafood pasta, enhancing the dish’s flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and cook the pasta right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Seafood pasta is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the ocean to your plate. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a romantic evening or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and savor every bite!
Seafood Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or fettuccine
- 150 g shrimp peeled and deveined
- 100 g calamari sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 100 ml white wine
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 100 g cherry tomatoes halved
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Olive oil for cooking
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and calamari to the pan, cooking until shrimp turns pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine, simmering for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream, mixing well to combine.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they soften.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it is well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
