Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or hours of cooking? Then look no further! This marinara shrimp pasta recipe is your answer. It's a delightful blend of succulent shrimp, vibrant marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, ready in under 30 minutes. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a delicious and healthy homemade meal. It's one of those best recipes that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (choose your favorite!)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 3: Add Shrimp and Marinara Sauce
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Pour in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and marinara sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Stir in the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan cheese if desired. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a delightful spicy touch for those who like a little heat.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Use high-quality marinara sauce: The flavor of your sauce will greatly impact the overall taste of your dish. Feel free to experiment with different brands or make your own homemade marinara for an even more delicious experience.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasoning accordingly. You might want to add more salt, pepper, garlic, or even a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach.
Variations:
- Lemon Shrimp Pasta: Add the juice and zest of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty twist.
- Creamy Shrimp Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a quick dinner idea with a good source of protein and carbohydrates. The nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving is approximately:
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fat: 15-20g
This easy and healthy meal is a delicious way to enjoy a quick dinner that’s both satisfying and flavorful. It's a great option for weeknight meals, family gatherings, or even a romantic dinner for two. Enjoy!