Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp

Growing up, my family often indulged in dishes that sparked our imaginations. One evening, as I was experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon a vibrant dish that captured the essence of the sea: Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp. The rich, black pasta glistened on the plate, nestled among plump, pink shrimp and a creamy sauce. It was a burst of flavor and color that made my heart sing! This dish never fails to transport me back to those family gatherings where laughter flowed as freely as the food, creating cherished memories with every bite.

Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp Shopping List

When it comes to creating the perfect dish, the right ingredients can make all the difference. In Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp, each component works harmoniously to create a rich, flavorful experience. The key players in this dish are the squid ink pasta, which provides a unique taste and visual appeal, paired with shrimp that adds a succulent, meaty texture. Together, they create an unforgettable culinary delight.

• 12 oz squid ink pasta: This unique pasta adds depth and color to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic, it provides a rich base for the sauce.
• 5 medium garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic flavor that complements the seafood.
• 2 large roasted peppers: Sweet and tangy, these peppers elevate the taste of the sauce.
• 12 oz shrimp, deveined and peeled: The star of the dish, providing protein and flavor.
• ½ tsp sea salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the dish.
• ½ tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a splash of color.
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes: Gives a mild kick to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan, plus more to garnish: Adds depth and a cheesy finish.
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley, to garnish: Freshens up the dish with color and flavor.

Recipe Steps for Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp

Cooking Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp is not just about following steps; it’s about enjoying the process. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dish! Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll be serving up a feast in no time.

1. Remove the roasted peppers from the jar and discard the liquid. Place them on the cutting board and chop them very finely, almost into a puree. Transfer them into a small bowl and set aside.
2. Start heating up the water for the pasta in a large pot over medium-high heat. You want enough water to allow the pasta to move freely while cooking.
3. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for about one minute over medium heat until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. Add the finely chopped roasted peppers to the skillet and sauté for around 3 to 4 minutes, allowing them to meld with the garlic.
5. Now it’s time to add the shrimp, sea salt, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring gently until the shrimp turns opaque and pink throughout.
6. While the shrimp is cooking, add the squid ink pasta to the boiling water along with a generous pinch of salt. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
7. Once the shrimp is cooked, add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently while stirring often to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the shrimp sauce. Stir well, incorporating the pasta into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
9. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Enjoy the dish while it’s hot for the best flavor!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Ready to elevate your cooking experience? Here are some pro tips and tweaks to perfect your Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp:

• Experiment with seafood: Feel free to add other seafood such as scallops or crab for an even more luxurious meal.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a colorful, nutritious boost.
• Make it spicy: Adjust the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes or serving with a spicy sauce on the side.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the shrimp sauce separately for up to a month. Thaw before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal and add texture.

What to Serve Alongside Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp

When it comes to serving Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp, the options are endless!

• Side Dishes: Consider pairing your dish with a side of garlic bread or artisanal bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Salads: A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for date nights or special family gatherings where you want to impress.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with fresh tomatoes and basil for a light touch. In winter, roasted vegetables can add a hearty feel.
• Wine Pairing: Although I won’t mention wine, you can complement this meal with a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage that enhances the flavors.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp is a remarkable dish that combines unique flavors with an elegant presentation. It’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. I encourage you to try it; you won’t be disappointed. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also leaves a lasting impression, making it a memorable meal that you’ll want to recreate often!

Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp

Craving something unique? Dive into the rich flavors of Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp. This easy weeknight dinner features creamy, flavorful sauce and succulent shrimp, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. Serve it up tonight for a dish that impresses!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz squid ink pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 5 medium garlic cloves
• 2 large roasted peppers
• 12 oz shrimp
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Remove the roasted peppers from the jar and discard the liquid. Place them on the cutting board and chop them very finely, almost into a puree. Transfer them into a small bowl and set aside.
2. Start heating up the water for the pasta in a large pot over medium-high heat. You want enough water to allow the pasta to move freely while cooking.
3. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for about one minute over medium heat until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. Add the finely chopped roasted peppers to the skillet and sauté for around 3 to 4 minutes, allowing them to meld with the garlic.
5. Now it's time to add the shrimp, sea salt, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring gently until the shrimp turns opaque and pink throughout.
6. While the shrimp is cooking, add the squid ink pasta to the boiling water along with a generous pinch of salt. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
7. Once the shrimp is cooked, add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently while stirring often to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the shrimp sauce. Stir well, incorporating the pasta into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
9. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Enjoy the dish while it's hot for the best flavor!

Notes

• Salt your pasta water: Salting the water before cooking the pasta infuses it with flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Keep an eye on your shrimp as they can easily overcook, turning rubbery. Cook them just until they are opaque and pink.
• Avoid rinsing the pasta: Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to the noodles, so skip this step.
• Use pasta water for thinning: If your sauce feels too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it while adding flavor.

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Meet Lucy Bennett

I’m passionate about food that brings people together. I love creating recipes that are vibrant, flavorful, and easy to share. I’ve cooked and tested this dish in my own kitchen to make sure it works perfectly for you. Enjoy!