Spaghetti with clams and shrimp
Shrimp and Clam Spaghetti – A Summer Delight!
When it comes to quick and delicious meals, shrimp and clam spaghetti is the perfect choice. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a recipe that evokes summer memories, with the sea breeze and the aroma of dishes from waterfront restaurants. I invite you to discover together with me how to prepare this dish, step by step, to achieve a delicious result.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients:
- 100 g Barilla spaghetti
- 150 g clams (frozen or fresh)
- 150 g shrimp (preferably fresh)
- 1 cup of tomato paste
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ bunch of fresh parsley
- 50 ml white wine
- Salt, pepper, and oregano to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil
Necessary Utensils:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Wok pan
- Wooden spatula
- Grater or knife for chopping
Step by Step:
Step 1: Preparing the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Once the water starts boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions (usually between 8-10 minutes). Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Preparing the Shrimp
In the meantime, clean the shrimp. Remove the head and tail, then rinse them well under cold water to remove impurities. If using fresh clams, make sure to rinse them well to get rid of sand.
Step 3: Flavoring the Sauce
In a wok pan, add a few tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic cloves and fresh parsley. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn them.
Step 4: Cooking the Shrimp and Clams
Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Then, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates. This step adds a flavorful depth to the dish.
Step 5: The Clam Sauce
Now, add the tomato paste and a little water (about 50 ml) to create a thinner sauce. Add the clams and cover the pan with a lid. Let them open for 5-7 minutes. Once the clams have opened, you can tell the sauce is ready.
Step 6: Finishing the Dish
When the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the pan with the shrimp and clam sauce. Mix everything well for 2-3 minutes, so the pasta absorbs the flavors. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
Practical Tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a few chili flakes for a touch of spice.
- Vary the ingredients: If you don’t have clams, you can use mussels or even scallops. These will add an ocean touch to the dish.
- Serving: Serve the spaghetti with a garnish of freshly chopped parsley and, for an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with lemon juice.
Nutritional Notes:
This recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the shrimp, and clams are rich in essential minerals like zinc. The tomato paste contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and garlic brings benefits for the immune system. Additionally, extra virgin olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy choice and adds an interesting texture to the dish.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the shrimp with mushrooms or various vegetables, such as zucchini, for a delicious option.
3. What white wine should I choose?
Opt for a dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which will pair perfectly with the dish’s flavors.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a simple olive oil dressing will perfectly complement the meal.
The Story Behind the Recipe:
This shrimp and clam spaghetti recipe is a modern reinterpretation of classic seafood dishes, bringing together the flavors of the sea and the comfort of Italian pasta. It is a perfect dish for a romantic dinner or a summer meal with friends, being quick to prepare and full of flavor.
So, I wish you good luck in preparing this recipe! Enjoy your meal and don’t forget to share your creation with your loved ones!
Ingredients: Spaghetti Barrila 100 g frozen or fresh clams 150 g shrimp 1 cup of tomato paste 2 cloves of garlic 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley 50 ml white wine salt/pepper/oregano
