Easy Seafood Pasta Recipe: A Delicious Meal in 30 Minutes
When time is of the essence but you still crave a delicious, gourmet meal, seafood pasta fits the bill beautifully. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor,
this easy seafood pasta Recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal, this dish combines fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and seafood that’ll please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients Pasta Recipe
For the Pasta:
– 8 ounces of spaghetti or linguine
– Salt (for pasta water)
For the Sauce :
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup of seafood mix (such as shrimp, scallops, and mussels – fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup of white wine (or low-sodium chicken broth)
– 1 lemon (juice and zest)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Boil Water:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt not only flavors the pasta but also increases the boiling point of the water, allowing for faster cooking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
1. Heat the Oil: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
3. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and begin to burst.
4. Cook the Seafood: Add the seafood mix to the skillet. If using frozen seafood, ensure that it is thawed and drained. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the seafood is opaque and fully cooked.
5. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and allow it to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes. The liquid should reduce slightly, creating a luscious sauce. Season with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
1. Toss Everything Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine all ingredients. If the sauce seems dry, slowly add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
2. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Seafood Pasta Recipe
– Seafood Selection: Feel free to customize the seafood mix based on what you like or have on hand. Fresh shrimp, calamari, or clams add wonderful flavors while remaining quick to cook.
– Pasta Alternatives: You can substitute spaghetti or linguine with any pasta you prefer, including whole wheat or gluten-free varieties.
– Herbs and Spices: Enhance flavors further with a splash of fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a more Mediterranean flair.
Conclusion
This easy seafood pasta recipe is a delightful meal that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
Its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients will make you feel like you’ve just stepped out of a seaside restaurant.
Serve it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and you’ll have a memorable meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary creation!