Shrimp and garlic pasta is a delicious and quick meal that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic and white wine sauce, fresh vegetables, and whole wheat angel hair pasta. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for special occasions. The combination of flavors from the garlic, white wine, and chili flakes creates a tantalizing dish that is both satisfying and healthy. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup red chili flakes
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 lb medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (1/2 cup)
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 8 oz whole wheat (multigrain) angel hair pasta
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook 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 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and red chili flakes and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in the dry white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. Stir to combine and cook until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Pasta:
- Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the butter and chopped parsley, stirring until the butter is melted and the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the shrimp and garlic pasta hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Cook’s Notes:
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute the chicken broth with seafood stock.
- If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chili flakes to suit your taste.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of the same dry white wine used in the recipe.
Variations:
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta:
- Add the juice of one lemon along with the butter for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Creamy Shrimp Pasta:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream after adding the chicken broth and white wine for a creamy version of this dish.
- Gluten-Free Shrimp Pasta:
- Substitute the whole wheat angel hair pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Vegetable Shrimp Pasta:
- Add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a heartier dish.
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta:
- Increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
FAQs:
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
- What kind of white wine should I use?
- A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works well in this recipe. Choose a wine that you enjoy drinking as it will impart its flavor to the dish.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or white wine to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Shrimp and garlic pasta is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of tender shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a savory garlic and white wine sauce over whole wheat pasta creates a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with the variations and make this dish your own!
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