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Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

This Spicy Shrimp Pasta combines whole wheat spaghetti with vibrant bell peppers, broccoli, and a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a quick, flavorful meal. Succulent shrimp are simmered in a zesty tomato sauce with garlic and shallots, creating a perfectly balanced dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti (or linguine or fettuccini noodles)

Vegetables

  • 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets (about 5 cups)
  • 1 medium yellow bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Sauce and Protein

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 (25-ounce) jar spicy arrabbiata pasta sauce
  • 1 pound raw large shrimp, peeled and deveined (thawed if frozen)

Garnish

  • 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
  • 3 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat spaghetti and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets, red and yellow bell peppers, and kosher salt. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
  3. Add Shallots and Garlic: Add the minced shallot to the skillet and continue cooking until the vegetables are crisp-tender and the shallots begin to brown, about 3 more minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Simmer Sauce and Shrimp: Pour the spicy arrabbiata pasta sauce into the skillet. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the sauce. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Immediately add the drained pasta to the sauce and shrimp mixture. Use tongs to toss everything thoroughly, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated and the vegetables and shrimp are well distributed.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with minced fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your spicy shrimp pasta!

Notes

  • Use thawed frozen shrimp for convenience and quicker cooking.
  • Adjust the spiciness by selecting a milder or hotter arrabbiata sauce based on preference.
  • Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and nutrients; however, other pasta types can be substituted according to taste.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Adding a splash of pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it feels too thick before mixing with pasta.