Craving cajun? try this shrimp pasta dish for an explosion of flavor
What To Know
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Serve the cajun shrimp recipe pasta with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Cajun cuisine with this delectable cajun shrimp recipe pasta. This dish combines the bold spices of Cajun seasoning with juicy shrimp and tender pasta, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients
- 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp
- 1 pound pasta (such as penne, shells, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Season the shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Deglaze the pan: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a boil. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, or until thickened. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
7. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and stir to combine.
8. Garnish and serve: Garnish the cajun shrimp recipe pasta with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Variations
- Spicy: For a spicier dish, add more Cajun seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy: For a richer sauce, add more heavy cream.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes.
- Seafood: Add other seafood to the dish, such as scallops, mussels, or crab.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp, as they will become tough.
- If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
- Serve the cajun shrimp recipe pasta with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Health Benefits
- Shrimp is a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12.
- Cajun seasoning contains antioxidants that can help protect against chronic diseases.
- Vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Summary
This cajun shrimp recipe pasta is a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to the vibrant flavors of Louisiana. Its bold spices, juicy shrimp, and tender pasta make it a dish that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your senses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: You can substitute milk or evaporated milk for the heavy cream.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: The cajun shrimp recipe pasta can be made ahead of time and reheated when you’re ready to serve. However, the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you may need to add a little extra sauce before reheating.