Pasta with Shrimp and Scallops

Pasta with Shrimp and Scallops Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pasta with shrimp and scallops is a delicious and savory dish that combines the flavors of seafood with a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a weekend meal with family and friends.

History

The combination of pasta with shrimp and scallops is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The seafood adds a luxurious touch to the pasta, while the tomato sauce provides a burst of flavor. This recipe has been adapted and modified over the years to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

6 tbsp olive oil
2 lb (907 g) ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
3 tbsp capers, drained
2 tbsp anchovies, chopped (optional - I don't like anchovies, so I don't put them in)
1 tbsp garlic, chopped
0.75 lb (340 g) raw shrimp, peeled
0.5 lb (227 g) sea scallops, halved
2 tbsp (kalamata) chopped, optional
fettuccine or linguine

How to prepare

Heat oil over high heat. Add tomatoes, capers, anchovies, and garlic. Cook until tomatoes release their juices and the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes. Add shrimp and scallops, cook for about 2 minutes.
Cook the pasta. Pour the sauce over the pasta and serve.
Enjoy.

Variations

Add fresh herbs such as basil or parsley to the sauce for extra flavor.
Use different types of seafood such as lobster or crab for a luxurious twist.
Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe tomatoes for the sauce to ensure a rich and flavorful base.

- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp and scallops, as they can become tough and rubbery.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve pasta with shrimp and scallops with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. Pair with a glass of white wine for a perfect dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to cook the shrimp and scallops just until they are opaque and cooked through.

- Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken for a few minutes to develop the flavors.

- Toss the pasta with the sauce just before serving to ensure that it is well coated.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't like anchovies, you can omit them from the recipe.

- Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce.

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

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the shrimp and scallops just before serving to ensure they are fresh and flavorful.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pasta with shrimp and scallops with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation. Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of pasta with shrimp and scallops typically contains around 400-500 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this dish come primarily from the pasta and tomatoes. A serving of pasta with shrimp and scallops typically contains around 40-50 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The olive oil used in this recipe provides healthy fats that are essential for a balanced diet. A serving of pasta with shrimp and scallops contains around 15-20 grams of fat.

Proteins

The shrimp and scallops in this dish are excellent sources of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. A serving of pasta with shrimp and scallops contains around 25-30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes and seafood. It also contains iron, zinc, and magnesium from the shrimp and scallops.

Alergens

This recipe contains seafood (shrimp and scallops), anchovies, and gluten (pasta), which may be allergens for some individuals. Please check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Pasta with shrimp and scallops is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Pasta with shrimp and scallops is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With a rich tomato sauce and tender seafood, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Pasta with Shrimp and Scallops. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was a fantastic cook, and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me.

As we chatted and sipped on tea, Maria suddenly pulled out a tattered old cookbook from her shelf. She flipped through the pages with a mischievous smile on her face and landed on a page that caught my eye. The recipe for Pasta with Shrimp and Scallops was simple yet elegant, and I could practically taste the flavors just by reading the ingredients.

Maria saw the look of excitement on my face and chuckled softly. "I learned this recipe from my grandmother when I was just a young girl," she explained. "It's a family favorite, and I'm sure you'll love it as much as we do."

With Maria's guidance, we set out to gather all the necessary ingredients for the dish. Fresh shrimp and scallops, ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and of course, a generous amount of pasta. As we worked together in her kitchen, Maria shared stories of her grandmother and how she used to cook for the whole family with such love and care.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me as I chopped the vegetables and seasoned the seafood. It reminded me of my own grandmother, who passed down her recipes to me with the same passion and dedication.

Once everything was prepped and ready to go, Maria and I cooked the pasta to al dente perfection and seared the shrimp and scallops until they were golden and caramelized. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and my stomach growled in anticipation.

As we plated the pasta with the seafood on top, Maria drizzled a simple yet flavorful sauce made with olive oil, garlic, and a splash of white wine. The final touch was a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, adding a burst of color and flavor to the dish.

With eager anticipation, we sat down to enjoy our meal together. The first bite was heavenly - the tender shrimp and scallops melted in my mouth, while the pasta soaked up all the delicious flavors of the sauce. Maria and I savored each bite, savoring the memories of our grandmothers and the love they had poured into their cooking.

As we finished our meal, Maria smiled at me and said, "Now you have a new recipe to add to your collection, my dear. May it bring you as much joy and comfort as it has brought me over the years."

And she was right. From that day on, Pasta with Shrimp and Scallops became a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the bond between friends, family, and the shared love of good food. And every time I make it, I can't help but think of Maria and her grandmother, cooking together in that cozy little kitchen, passing down their recipes and stories with pride and joy.