Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta Stir-fry

Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta Stir-fry Recipe with Yellow Squash and Zucchini

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

This Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta Stir-fry recipe is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the flavors of fresh seafood, vegetables, and pasta. The combination of shrimp, tomatoes, basil, and olives creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

History

This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Mediterranean cuisine, which is known for its use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of shrimp and pasta is a classic pairing in Italian and Mediterranean cooking, and this stir-fry recipe puts a modern twist on a timeless dish.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of good olive oil
1 tbsp of fresh garlic
0.25 cup of diced yellow squash
0.25 cup of zucchini squash
0.25 cup of roma tomatoes
1 tbsp of fresh basil
6 pieces of 0.67 count shrimp
1 tbsp of Calamata olive base or whole
1 oz (28 g) of freshly grated parmesan or asiago cheese
6 oz (170 g) of cooked penne pasta
0.5 cup of roasted peppers and onions

How to prepare

In a large skillet (10"-12"), heat olive oil.
Add yellow and zucchini squash.
Next, add garlic, Roma tomatoes, basil, and large shrimp.
Continue to stir-fry the ingredients together.
Include Calamata olive paste.
Add pasta and roasted vegetables.
Splash a little white wine or chicken stock and finish with grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Substitute feta cheese for Parmesan for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, as overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the shrimp and add extra vegetables or tofu for protein.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is a quick and easy cooking technique that involves cooking ingredients in a hot pan with a small amount of oil. This method helps to retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients while creating a delicious and flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cherry tomatoes instead of Roma tomatoes.

- Substitute black olives for Calamata olives.

- Use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti or penne.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This dish is best served fresh, so it's recommended to cook it just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (cheese) allergens.

Summary

This Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta Stir-fry is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta Stir-fry is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is a nutritious and delicious option for any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her beautiful home in the Mediterranean. As soon as I stepped inside, the scent of garlic, herbs, and fresh seafood filled the air, making my mouth water.

Maria greeted me with a warm hug and a bright smile. She led me to her cozy kitchen, where a pot of pasta was boiling on the stove and a bowl of plump shrimp sat on the counter, just waiting to be cooked. Maria explained that she was making her famous Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta Stir-fry, a dish she learned from her own grandmother many years ago.

As Maria began to cook, I watched in awe as she effortlessly diced vegetables, sautéed garlic, and tossed the shrimp with fragrant herbs and spices. The aromas that wafted from the pan were intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

After a few minutes of cooking, Maria plated the stir-fry and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. I took my first bite and was immediately transported to a seaside café in the Mediterranean. The flavors were bold and vibrant, with the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy notes.

I begged Maria for the recipe, eager to recreate this delicious dish in my own kitchen. She graciously wrote it down for me, along with a few tips and tricks she had picked up over the years. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire, a dish that would bring back memories of lazy summer days spent with dear friends.

Back home in my own kitchen, I gathered the ingredients for the Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta Stir-fry. I chopped vegetables, minced garlic, and seasoned the shrimp with a blend of Mediterranean spices. As the pasta cooked on the stove, I heated a pan and added a drizzle of olive oil, just like Maria had taught me.

Once the shrimp and vegetables were cooked to perfection, I tossed them together with the pasta, creating a colorful and fragrant dish that looked just like the one Maria had made. I garnished it with parsley and a squeeze of lemon, just as she had done, and took a bite.

The flavors were just as I remembered – bold, vibrant, and utterly delicious. I closed my eyes and imagined myself back in Maria's kitchen, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Mediterranean. This dish was more than just a recipe – it was a taste of a place and time that would forever hold a special place in my heart.

As the years passed, I continued to make Maria's Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta Stir-fry for family and friends, sharing the story of how I had learned the recipe from a dear friend on a summer day in the Mediterranean. Each time I cooked the dish, I felt a connection to Maria and the memories we had shared, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting bonds.

And so, whenever I make this dish, I am transported back to that sunny kitchen in the Mediterranean, where the scent of garlic, herbs, and seafood filled the air and laughter rang out through the open windows. It is a reminder of the joy of cooking and the simple pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones, a tradition that I will carry on for generations to come.