Spicy Shrimp Pasta
This recipe can satisfy a number of meal occasions. It’s quick and easy so you can prepare it for a weeknight dinner. Yet it’s also perfect for casual entertaining as it is packed with flavor and a touch of heat from the Italian herbs and crushed red pepper. Use jumbo shrimp if you want to make it impressive!
Ingredients:
- 4 oz. large shrimp
- Pappardelle pasta
- 1 tbsp. chicken bouillon
- 1 tbsp. oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsps. unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 tbsp. minced garlic
- 2-3 tbsps. tomato paste
- 1 tsp dry pepper flakes
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 handful fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the Pasta:
- Boil the pasta in a pot of water seasoned with chicken bouillon and salt. Cook until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Season the shrimp with paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
- Heat oil in a skillet, add seasoned shrimp, and cook for about a minute on each side. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add butter, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
- Add tomato paste and cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the paste to fry and remove its raw taste.
- If needed, add a bit more oil/butter to prevent sticking.
- Season with pepper flakes, Cajun seasoning, and squeeze in half a lemon.
- Add the reserved pasta water (or chicken broth) and stir.
- Optional: Add spinach for extra nutrition.
- Finalizing the Dish:
- Pour in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper to taste, and add parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated.
- Finally, gently mix in the cooked shrimp, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Serve:
- Garnish with any remaining shrimp and perhaps some extra parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy!
- Serve this delicious and spicy shrimp pasta immediately.
Note: Adjust the level of spice according to your preference by regulating the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes used.
