Easy Shrimp Pasta Recipe
I. Introduction
A quick Filipino-Italian fusion dish—shrimp tossed with pasta in a garlicky, creamy, or tomato-based sauce. This Easy Shrimp Pasta Recipe combines the freshness of seafood with familiar pasta preparations, creating a satisfying meal that brings together two beloved cuisines.
II. Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb spaghetti or linguine
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (Filipino twist)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup white wine or calamansi juice
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
III. Equipment
- Large pot for pasta
- Large skillet or pan
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
IV. Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add white wine or calamansi juice, letting it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in cream or coconut milk and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet with sauce, tossing to combine.
- Return shrimp to the pan, add pasta water if needed, and toss everything together.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley; serve immediately.
V. Tips
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency; add bell peppers or mushrooms for texture. Don’t overcook the shrimp as they become rubbery. The pasta water contains starch that helps bind the sauce to the pasta. For a Filipino twist, you can substitute coconut milk for the cream to make it more familiar to local tastes.
VI. Serving
As a main dish for lunch or dinner. This pasta dish pairs well with a simple green salad and crusty bread. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for an elegant presentation. It’s also delicious with a glass of white wine or iced tea.
VII. Storage
Keeps 2 days; reheat with a splash of water or milk. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a small amount of water, milk, or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. This dish is best consumed fresh, as the shrimp can become rubbery when reheated.
