Introduction
Transform simple, everyday ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal with this creamy shrimp and scallop pasta recipe! Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors, this dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner that won’t compromise on taste or nutrition. We’ll focus on creating a balanced and delicious meal that nourishes your body and delights your senses.
Why This Works
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and elegance. The creamy sauce comes together quickly, and the combination of succulent shrimp and scallops provides a luxurious yet light protein source. The recipe is easily adaptable to your dietary preferences, making it a versatile and healthy choice for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients
🍝 8 ounces linguine pasta
🦐 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
🐚 8 ounces sea scallops
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🧅 1/2 small yellow onion, chopped
🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
🥛 1 cup heavy cream
🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
🍋 1 tablespoon lemon juice
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
🧈 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook linguine according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
3️⃣ Add shrimp and scallops to the skillet. Cook until pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes per side.
4️⃣ Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook until sauce slightly thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
5️⃣ Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
6️⃣ Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7️⃣ Stir in fresh parsley before serving.
Handy Tips
- Pat shrimp and scallops dry before cooking to ensure they brown properly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the seafood; cook in batches if necessary.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
Heat Control
Medium heat is crucial for this recipe. High heat will cook the seafood too quickly, potentially making it tough. Low heat will result in overcooked vegetables and a watery sauce. Maintain a consistent medium heat for even cooking and a creamy sauce.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on a creamy texture, you can add a delightful crunch by toasting some pine nuts or breadcrumbs separately and sprinkling them over the finished dish before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp and scallops in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Use a high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish makes a wonderful gift! Package individual portions in attractive containers and add a small sprig of fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Shrimp and Scallop Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
🌟 Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Scallop Pasta: Increase the amount of lemon juice and garlic for a brighter, more pungent flavor.
🌟 Creamy Tomato Shrimp and Scallop Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of crushed tomatoes with the heavy cream for a slightly tangy twist.
🌟 Mediterranean Shrimp and Scallop Pasta: Add 1/4 cup of chopped Kalamata olives and a sprinkle of dried oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
Troubleshooting
- Seafood is overcooked: Reduce the cooking time and use lower heat.
- Sauce is too thin: Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Sauce is too thick: Add a tablespoon or two of pasta water to thin it out.
FAQ
- Can I substitute other types of pasta? Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
- Can I use frozen shrimp and scallops? Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the pasta and seafood just before serving.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination.
- How many servings does this recipe make? This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Conclusion
This Creamy Shrimp and Scallop Pasta is a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We hope you enjoy this recipe and that it becomes a staple in your healthy meal rotation! Share your culinary creations with us – we’d love to see your delicious results! Bon appétit!
Shrimp Scampi Wellness: A Creamy, Healthy Pasta Delight
A lighter take on the classic shrimp scampi, featuring whole wheat pasta and a creamy, yet healthy sauce that satisfies your cravings without the guilt.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup light cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sautu00e9 until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the light cream or Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in lemon juice and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.