Cooking seafood has always been a passion of mine. There’s something magical about the way shrimp and scallops transform into a delightful dish that warms the heart. When I first tried making Creamy Shrimp And Scallop Pasta, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a rich and satisfying meal. The combination of tender shrimp and succulent scallops, all enveloped in a creamy sauce, is truly a seafood lover’s dream. This dish not only looks impressive but also brings a taste of the ocean right to your table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish never fails to impress. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Join me on this culinary adventure, and let’s dive into the delicious world of creamy seafood pasta!
Ingredients List
8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound scallops, patted dry
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Creamy Shrimp And Scallop Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of fettuccine or linguine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help adjust the sauce later. After reserving the water, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Seafood
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add 1 pound of shrimp and 1 pound of scallops, making sure they are patted dry. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. This step is crucial for flavor and texture. Once done, remove the seafood from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and creates a smooth sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and if you like a bit of heat, add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat every strand. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp and scallops, ensuring they are well combined with the pasta. Plate your creamy shrimp and scallop pasta, and don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy this seafood delight!
Nutritional Information
When indulging in Creamy Shrimp And Scallop Pasta, it’s good to know what you’re savoring. Each serving, which is about one-fourth of the recipe, contains approximately:
Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 25g
These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy this rich dish while keeping in mind its nutritional content!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce combined with seafood creates a luxurious taste experience.
Seafood Appeal: Tender shrimp and scallops make this dish a seafood lover’s dream.
Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, it looks as good as it tastes.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with different pasta types or added vegetables.
Tips for Success
To make your Creamy Shrimp And Scallop Pasta truly shine, start with the freshest seafood you can find. Fresh shrimp and scallops elevate the dish’s flavor. When cooking, avoid overcrowding the skillet; this ensures even cooking and that beautiful golden color. Don’t rush the sauce—let it simmer gently to develop its rich taste. Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your preference, adding more salt or pepper if needed. Lastly, remember that the reserved pasta water is your friend; it helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!
Variations
Get creative with your Creamy Shrimp And Scallop Pasta by experimenting with different ingredients! Swap out fettuccine or linguine for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist. You can also add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can brighten the dish, while a squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing. For a bit of crunch, toss in some sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to make this dish your own while keeping that creamy seafood goodness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers of your Creamy Shrimp And Scallop Pasta, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume them within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. When reheating, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming. On the stovetop, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to the skillet to help loosen the sauce as it heats. This will keep your pasta creamy and delicious. Enjoy your seafood delight again!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions about Creamy Shrimp And Scallop Pasta that might help you in your cooking journey:
Can I use frozen shrimp and scallops?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for an extra kick!
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus can be great additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
Creamy Shrimp And Scallop Pasta is a delightful seafood dish that combines tender shrimp and scallops with a rich, creamy sauce over pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound scallops, patted dry
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and scallops, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Gently fold the cooked shrimp and scallops into the pasta until well combined.
Plate the creamy shrimp and scallop pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
