Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a delightful dish that brings vibrant Italian flavors to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. This recipe features a creamy sauce infused with fresh herbs and spices, making it perfect for date nights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress. The combination of succulent shrimp and rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Deliciously Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan cheese creates a rich, satisfying sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out shrimp for another protein.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this dish visually stunning, ensuring it stands out at any dinner table.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is not only delicious but also appealing to both children and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling pasta efficiently while allowing plenty of space for it to cook evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing shrimp and creating the creamy sauce without overcrowding the pan.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces linguine pasta

For the Shrimp and Sauce

• 1 pound shrimp, (peeled and deveined)
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 teaspoons garlic, (minced)
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, (grated)
• 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, (drained and chopped)
• ⅓ cup fresh basil, (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
• salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and then add the linguine pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until they turn pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in minced garlic until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring constantly for about one minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth followed by heavy cream until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add grated parmesan cheese to the sauce along with sun dried tomatoes. Stir well until cheese melts completely into the sauce. If necessary, season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return cooked shrimp to the skillet along with cooked linguine pasta. Toss everything together gently until pasta is coated in creamy sauce. Finally, stir in chopped fresh basil and paprika for an added flavor boost.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta warm on plates or in bowls. Garnish with extra basil or parmesan if desired! Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more special.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
• Add Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley can brighten up the dish and complement the creamy sauce.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, providing a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side option.

With Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crispy garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks add an indulgent touch to your meal.

With Lemon Wedges

• Lemon Slices: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to add a zesty kick that brightens the dish’s flavors.
• Lemon Zest: Grate fresh lemon zest over the pasta for an aromatic finish.

How to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Perfecting Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh shrimp and herbs for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Get the Right Consistency: Adjust the thickness of your sauce by adding more or less chicken broth based on your preference.
• Balance Flavors: Taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for optimal flavor balance.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the linguine until al dente for the best texture that holds up well against the creamy sauce.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh; serve immediately after cooking for optimal taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

A well-rounded meal includes side dishes that complement Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta perfectly. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside the shrimp pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition, balancing the meal.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with creamy dishes.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with veggies can add a healthy touch and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil serves as an excellent starter or side.
6. Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed in vinaigrette brings freshness and balances richness from the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking pasta: This can lead to mushy noodles. Always check the package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Not seasoning adequately: Seasoning enhances flavor. Always taste your dish before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheese make a difference. Opt for fresh basil and good parmesan for the best flavor.
• Skipping the sauce thickening step: If not done properly, the sauce may be too runny. Follow the flour addition step carefully to achieve the right consistency.
• Rushing the cooking process: Good meals take time. Allow each ingredient to cook properly before adding the next one for full flavor development.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta?

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a delightful dish combining shrimp with creamy pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs that create a rich Italian flavor profile.

Can I substitute shrimp in Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta?

Yes! You can use chicken or turkey instead of shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.

How do I make Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free, including chicken broth and seasonings.

How spicy is Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta?

This recipe isn’t inherently spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you enjoy some heat.

Can I make Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a quick yet impressive meal that brings together robust flavors in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your taste preferences!

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