Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This Shrimp Marinara Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Combining succulent shrimp with a rich and vibrant marinara sauce, this easy recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas without sacrificing delicious homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Marinara Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Stir in a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Marinara Pasta:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste. Opt for fresh shrimp and high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Add vegetables: For a heartier meal, add some vegetables to the sauce, such as chopped onions, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Marinara: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinara sauce for an extra kick.
- Lemon Shrimp Marinara: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Creamy Shrimp Marinara: Stir in a 1/4 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the sauce at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal. Nutritional values will vary depending on specific ingredients used and serving size. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient quantities. Generally, expect a moderate calorie count with a good source of protein from the shrimp and fiber from the pasta.
This Shrimp Marinara Pasta recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It’s a quick dinner idea, ideal for busy weeknights, and a testament to the joys of homemade cooking. Enjoy this delicious dish and discover a new favorite among your best recipes!