Spaghetti with passata and shrimp
Recipe for Spaghetti with Passata Sauce and Shrimp: A Flavorful Culinary Adventure
Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Welcome to the delicious world of pasta! Today, I will present a simple yet flavorful recipe: Spaghetti with passata sauce and shrimp. This dish is not just a quick meal, but also a true celebration of fresh and aromatic ingredients. The shrimp, combined with the rich passata sauce, create a combination that will delight your senses.
A Brief History
Pasta, in its various forms, has been a staple food in many cultures. Over time, it has evolved into sophisticated yet simple dishes, full of flavor. In this recipe, we use spaghetti, a long and thin variety that perfectly absorbs sauces. The shrimp add a touch of saltiness and texture, transforming an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 200 g long spaghetti
- 1 clove of garlic, crushed
- 500 g passata (tomato sauce)
- 100 ml white wine
- 10 g cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pesto (for extra flavor)
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (400 g) peas with carrots, drained
- 250 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 160 g jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, thawed
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Step by Step
1. Boiling the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and then the spaghetti, following the package instructions to cook them al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain and set aside.
2. Preparing the Sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the white wine. This step is essential as it will help the sauce become thicker and creamier.
3. Cooking the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the crushed garlic, passata, the wine and cornstarch mixture, brown sugar, pesto, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Adding the Shrimp: Once the sauce has thickened, add the shrimp and let them cook for 2 minutes. The shrimp will cook quickly, and their flavor will infuse the sauce.
5. Adding the Vegetables: To the shrimp sauce, add the peas and carrots from the can, then most of the cherry tomatoes and a few basil leaves. Continue to cook everything for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine harmoniously.
6. Finishing the Dish: Remove the sauce from heat and pour it over the spaghetti. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Serving: Serve the dish warm, garnished with the remaining cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top can add an elegant touch.
Suggestions and Variations
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to experiment with other types of pasta, such as tagliatelle or penne. You can also add other vegetables, like zucchini or red bell peppers, for extra color and nutrients.
- Recommended Drinks: A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly with this dish. Additionally, fresh lemonade or herbal tea can be excellent options to balance the flavors.
- Occasion Serving: This recipe is ideal for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends. You can add a fresh green salad and a side of garlic bread to complete the meal.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Shrimp are an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the heart. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while peas and carrots provide essential fiber and vitamins.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh shrimp are an excellent choice and will add a more intense flavor.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a pinch of chili pepper or chili flakes to the sauce, depending on your preferences.
3. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just reheat it and add the pasta.
Conclusion
Spaghetti with passata sauce and shrimp is an easy-to-make recipe that combines delicious flavors and nutritious ingredients. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or a weekday dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and customize the recipe to your taste. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 200 g long spaghetti, 1 clove of garlic, crushed, 500 g passata, 100 ml white wine, 10 g food starch, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon pesto, sea salt and black pepper, 1 can (400 g) peas with carrots, drained, 250 g cherry tomatoes, halved, 160 g jumbo peeled frozen shrimp, thawed, fresh basil leaves
