Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that impresses and delights, the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a perfect choice. With its creamy sauce, succulent shrimp, and comforting pasta, this recipe has become a crowd favorite. Imagine serving this dish for a special dinner or a cozy family meal, and you’ll understand why it has gained a reputation for being a romantic dish. Combining fresh ingredients with simple cooking methods, this recipe is both approachable and satisfying.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined
– Fettuccine pasta: 8 ounces
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
– Red pepper flakes: 1 teaspoon
– Heavy cream: 1 cup
– Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated
– Fresh basil: 1/4 cup, chopped
– Salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste
Prep Time
Preparation for this delightful dish takes about 10 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for your cooking repertoire.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is approximately 20 minutes. In total, the entire process from prep to plating will take about 30 minutes. This recipe yields about four servings, perfect for a small gathering or a family dinner.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the remaining water and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and melter butter. Once the butter is bubbling, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Lower the heat and pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved.
Step 5: Final Touches
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, mixing until well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Marry Me Shrimp Pasta immediately, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Pasta Type
Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, but fettuccine or linguine pairs particularly well with this dish.
Note 2: Shrimp Preparation
Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined before cooking for the best presentation and flavor.
Note 3: Adjusting Spice Level
You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
Note 4: Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Cook techniques
Sautéing Shrimp
Sautéing is a quick cooking method that involves cooking shrimp in a hot pan with olive oil until they turn pink and opaque. This technique enhances the shrimp’s flavor while keeping them tender.
Cooking Pasta
To achieve perfectly cooked pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
Making the Sauce
Creating a creamy sauce involves combining butter, garlic, and heavy cream. Simmer these ingredients together to allow the flavors to meld, then add parmesan cheese for richness.
Combining Ingredients
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is ready, combine them in the pan. Tossing the pasta in the sauce helps to coat each strand evenly, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
Finishing Touches
Before serving, add fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of color and flavor. This step not only enhances the dish’s presentation but also adds a fresh taste.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking for even results.
What type of pasta works best?
While any pasta can work, fettuccine or linguine complements the shrimp and sauce beautifully.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare this dish fresh, but you can cook the shrimp and sauce separately and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter, though the texture and richness may vary.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat if desired.
Conclusion
The Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, shrimp, and a creamy sauce, creating a meal perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight dinner. Its simplicity and taste are sure to impress anyone at your table. By preparing this dish, you can create memorable moments that could lead to lasting affection.
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