Seafood Pasta
Seafood pasta is a dish that brings the taste of the ocean to your table. With a delightful blend of fresh seafood, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, seafood pasta is a versatile dish that caters to all occasions. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that celebrates the flavors of the sea!
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or fettuccine
- 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 100g squid, cleaned and sliced
- 100g scallops
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 2 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately 600 calories, 30g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 35g fat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
- Add the squid and scallops, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and allow it to reduce for 2 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add heavy cream, stirring gently.
- Season with salt, pepper, and half of the fresh parsley.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with remaining parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to make this dish lighter, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a low-fat cream alternative. Additionally, switch out seafood for vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
Serving and Pairings
Seafood pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine. Garlic bread also complements the meal, making it a complete dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Freezing is not recommended due to the seafood texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking seafood can make it tough; cook just until opaque.
- Don’t forget to salt your pasta water for better flavor.
- Using frozen seafood? Thaw it completely before cooking.
- Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Always taste for seasoning before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes for a unique twist.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Garnish with lemon zest for a fresh finish.
FAQs
How can I make seafood pasta gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta alternatives, such as rice noodles or quinoa pasta. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What types of seafood are best for pasta?
Popular choices include shrimp, scallops, and squid, but you can also use mussels or clams for added variety.
Can I make seafood pasta ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving.
What is the best wine to pair with seafood pasta?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully.
Can I add vegetables to seafood pasta?
Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and add nutritional value.
Conclusion
Seafood pasta is a delightful dish that showcases the best of ocean flavors combined with creamy pasta. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the rich taste and make it a part of your culinary repertoire!
Seafood Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or fettuccine
- 150 g shrimp peeled and deveined
- 100 g squid cleaned and sliced
- 100 g scallops
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
- Add the squid and scallops, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine and allow it to reduce for 2 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add heavy cream, stirring gently.
- Season with salt, pepper, and half of the fresh parsley.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with remaining parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
