Introduction to Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
If you're looking for a dish that combines romance and deliciousness, look no further than Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This enchanting meal has a reputation for capturing hearts—not just because of its dreamy flavors but also for its visually stunning presentation. Imagine creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and al dente penne pasta creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Why "Marry Me" Shrimp Pasta is the Ultimate Date Night Dish
What makes Marry Me Shrimp Pasta the quintessential date night dish? For starters, it’s packed with flavors that evoke indulgence and comfort. The rich sauce, combined with succulent shrimp, elevates an ordinary pasta dinner into something extraordinary. Plus, it’s straightforward to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your loved one and less time slaving in the kitchen.
Notably, this dish doesn't just taste incredible—it smells divine as it cooks. The aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes wafting through your kitchen will make it hard for your partner to resist. If you're interested in impressing someone special, this dish might just seal the deal. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that might just lead to a proposal!
For more tips on creating the perfect dinner ambiance, check this guide.
Ingredients for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Essential ingredients for your pasta delight
To create the perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, you'll need a mix of flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shrimp: 1 pound of extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
- Pasta: 12 ounces of gluten-free penne for a delightful bite.
- Tomatoes: ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes and 2 ½ tablespoons of tomato paste for that rich, tangy flavor.
- Cream & Cheese: 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of parmesan cheese for a creamy, decadent sauce.
- Seasonings: Don’t forget the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to elevate the dish.
Optional ingredients for customization
Feel free to make this dish your own! You might consider adding:
- Vegetables: Enhance the dish with diced spinach or even some bell peppers.
- Herbs: Fresh basil for garnish adds a nice touch!
- Protein swipes: Substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or turkey bacon for a unique twist.
Mix and match these ingredients to fit your taste, and you'll have a dish that’s sure to impress! If you want to explore more on sun-dried tomatoes’ health benefits, check out this Nutrition article.
Step-by-step Preparation of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Gather your ingredients
Before you dive into creating your marry me shrimp pasta, it’s essential to have everything at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
-
For the Shrimp:
-
1 pound extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
Spices: ½ tablespoon smoked paprika, ¾ tablespoon Italian seasoning, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¾ teaspoon salt
-
1 ½ tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil
-
For the Sauce:
-
2 ½ tablespoon tomato paste, ½ cup diced sun-dried tomatoes, additional seasonings (Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, dried basil)
-
2 tablespoon gluten-free flour, 2 cups diced spinach
-
2 tablespoon butter, 2 tablespoon minced onion, 2 tablespoon minced garlic
-
2 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup Parmesan cheese
-
Fresh basil for garnish
-
12 oz gluten-free penne pasta
Make sure you have a large skillet and pot ready to go. Preparation is key for a smooth cooking experience!
Prepare and season the shrimp
Start by tossing your shrimp in a mixing bowl with the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they’re all evenly coated—this seasoning will infuse the shrimp with rich flavors. Let this sit for a few minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cook the pasta to al dente perfection
While sizzling the shrimp, don’t forget the gluten-free penne! Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente—this will ensure it has the right texture to hold up in the sauce later.
Sauté the aromatics in your skillet
In the same large skillet you used for the shrimp, heat the sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Toss in the diced sun-dried tomatoes, seasonings, and tomato paste, allowing them to mingle for another minute.
Create the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce
Now, it’s time to create that luscious sauce. Stir in the gluten-free flour to thicken the mixture, then gradually add the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Cook while stirring until the sauce thickens—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Once it’s creamy, stir in the spinach and let it heat until wilted, followed by the Parmesan cheese to add a velvety finish.
Combine the pasta and shrimp with the sauce
Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and carefully fold it into the creamy sauce along with the cooked shrimp. Toss gently until everything is coated beautifully. This is the moment you realize why they call it marry me shrimp pasta—the flavors are irresistible!
Garnish and serve
To finish, plate the pasta and top it with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm and watch as those around you fall in love at first bite. This dish not only tastes incredible; it’s an experience that lingers long after the meal is over. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Variations on Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking to switch things up, try Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Simply replace the shrimp with succulent chicken breasts, seasoned similarly with smoked paprika and Italian seasoning. Following the same recipe, cook the chicken until golden and combine it with the rich sun-dried tomato sauce and al dente penne. This variation is perfect for those who prefer poultry while still enjoying that captivating flavor profile that makes Marry Me Shrimp Pasta a hit!
Marry Me Pasta with Veggies
For a lighter, vegetarian twist, create Marry Me Pasta with Veggies. Sauté your favorite seasonal vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli, alongside the garlic and onion. You can even toss in some chickpeas for added protein. This version not only maintains the rich flavors but also elevates the dish with vibrant colors and textures, making it a delightful choice for meatless Mondays or any day you crave some greens.
Each variation is easy to prepare and provides a delicious take on the classic!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Perfect Shrimp Cooking Techniques
When making your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, achieving the perfect shrimp is crucial. Cook them in a hot skillet for just 2 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely shade of pink and form a “C” shape. If they curl into an “O,” you’ve overcooked them—so keep an eye on them!
Recommended Storage Tips
To keep your delicious pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish is best enjoyed freshly made due to its rich creaminess, which doesn’t freeze well. Consider incorporating stunning ingredients like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor punch. For more storage tips, check out resources from The Kitchn.
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Pairing with Salads or Sides
To elevate your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, consider pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. For something heartier, garlic bread or roasted vegetables—like asparagus or zucchini—are excellent side options. The contrast in textures and flavors will make your meal even more delightful!
Choosing the Right Toppings
When it comes to toppings, fresh herbs make all the difference. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or extra basil can brighten up each bite. For those who like a bit of heat, try red pepper flakes. You can also top it with freshly grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish. Personalize your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta and make it your own!
Don't forget to check out helpful resources about herb pairings and seasonal vegetables to enhance your dining experience!
Time Breakdown for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready for this delightful Marry Me Shrimp Pasta takes only about 5 minutes. Just gather your shrimp, pasta, and seasonings, and you’ll be ready to dive in!
Cooking Time
The magic happens in the kitchen! You’ll spend 30 minutes cooking this dish, allowing you to create a rich and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the shrimp and pasta.
Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you can turn your kitchen into an Italian bistro! This speedy time frame makes Marry Me Shrimp Pasta an ideal choice for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or even a romantic date night.
If you want to enhance your cooking skills or need tips for preparation, visit KitchenAid’s blog for some fantastic kitchen hacks!
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Calories per serving
In a delightful serving of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, you can expect about 321 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet moderate choice for dinner, perfect for busy professionals looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Protein content
Each serving packs a hearty 19 grams of protein, thanks to the shrimp and cheese in the recipe. This protein boost not only helps keep you full longer but also supports muscle repair and overall wellness.
Sodium levels
While the creamy sauce is delicious, it's important to note that this dish contains 1,553 mg of sodium per serving. If you're monitoring your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium vegetable broth or adjusting the salt to keep it heart-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
For more personalized nutritional advice, check out resources from the American Heart Association. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta!
FAQs about Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta gluten-free, simply swap regular penne with a gluten-free version. Read labels carefully, as many brands offer gluten-free options made from rice or corn. Additionally, ensure that all sauces and flavored ingredients, like the tomato paste and spices, are gluten-free. This way, you’ll enjoy the same creamy, delicious experience without any gluten!
Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?
Absolutely! If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute it with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based proteins. Just remember to adjust your cooking times. For instance, chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To keep the flavors and textures intact, reheat your Marry Me Shrimp Pasta gently. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel, or use a skillet on low heat with a splash of broth or cream to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally for even heating, and you’ll have a delightful meal ready to enjoy!
Conclusion on Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
In conclusion, Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors that is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. With its rich, creamy sauce and succulent shrimp, this dish speaks to the heart. Try it out, and you might just hear wedding bells! Happy cooking!
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
Equipment
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- Mixing Bowls
- large skillet
- Thermopro Lightning meat thermometer
- large pot
- strainer
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound extra large shrimp peeled/deveined
- ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
- ¾ tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
For the Sauce
- 2 ½ tablespoon Cento tomato paste
- ½ cup Cento sun-dried tomatoes diced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ⅓ teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon dried basil
- 2 tablespoon Gluten free 1:1 flour
- 2 cups diced spinach
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoon minced onion
- 2 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil chopped for garnish
- 12 oz gluten free penne
Instructions
For the Shrimp
- Boil the pasta according to the package directions for al dente while you cook the shrimp.
- Toss the shrimp with the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until they're evenly coated.
- Heat the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then, cook the shrimp for two minutes on both sides until they are pink, opaque, and C-shaped. If they're O-shaped, you've cooked them too long.
- Set the cooked shrimp aside to cool.
For the Sauce
- Melt the butter in the same pan over medium-low heat. Then, add the garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and dried basil. Cook the mixture for about two minutes until fragrant.
- Add the flour to the aromatics and stir well. Then, add the broth, heavy cream, and spinach. Stir and cook until the sauce thickens and the spinach starts to wilt - about 5 minutes. Then, add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Carefully mix the pasta into the sauce. Then, add the shrimp and gently stir again. Garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy.
Leave a Reply