Angel hair pasta, with its delicate strands and quick cooking time, serves as the perfect backdrop for a myriad of flavors. When paired with succulent shrimp, it transforms into a dish that’s both elegant and delectably satisfying.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe for angel hair pasta with shrimp promises a culinary experience that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to savor.
Recipe For Angel Hair Pasta With Shrimp
A light and flavorful dish, angel hair pasta with shrimp is a delightful combination of delicate pasta and succulent shrimp, all tied together with a hint of garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Time Required
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 200g angel hair pasta
- 300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust as per taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic & red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet & cook until pink on both sides.
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked pasta & chopped parsley. Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Quality Shrimp: Opt for fresh or frozen wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor.
- Pasta Cooking: Always salt your pasta with water. It should taste like the sea.
- Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cooks quickly. As soon as they turn pink, they’re done.
- Wine Substitute: If you’re not using wine, chicken or vegetable broth works as a great substitute.
- Extra Flavor: Add cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for an added burst of flavor.
- Herb Variations: Basil or cilantro can be used in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftover angel hair pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- It’s best to reheat this dish on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- A chilled glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Finish off the meal with a light dessert like panna cotta or lemon sorbet.
How Many Minutes Do You Cook Angel Hair Pasta?
To cook angel hair pasta, boil a pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the pasta & cook for about 3-4 minutes. Angel hair pasta is very thin in texture, so it cooks quickly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Taste a strand to check for doneness – it should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). Drain immediately & serve with your favorite sauce or toppings. Enjoy your meal!
How Do You Keep Shrimp Pasta From Drying Out?
To prevent shrimp pasta from drying out, follow these tips:
- Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercooked the pasta since it will continue cooking when mixed with other ingredients.
- Save pasta water: Reserve some pasta cooking water to add to the dish later. It’s starchy and helps create a creamy sauce.
- Use enough sauce: Ensure there’s enough sauce to coat the pasta and shrimp adequately.
- Add shrimp last: Cook the shrimp separately, then add them to the pasta near the end to avoid overcooking.
- Cover when storing: If saving leftovers, store them in an airtight container and cover them with sauce to prevent drying out.
How Do You Make Angel Hair Pasta Not Sticky?
To prevent angel hair pasta from becoming sticky, follow these steps:
- Boil ample water: Use a large pot with plenty of boiling, salted water.
- Stir while cooking: Stir the pasta immediately after adding it to the boiling water to prevent sticking.
- Avoid overcooking: Cook until al dente, then drain promptly. Overcooked pasta can turn sticky.
- Rinse sparingly: Rinse the pasta only if you plan to use it in a cold dish, as rinsing removes the starch that can help the sauce adhere. Otherwise, skip rinsing.
Bottom Line
Combining the lightness of angel hair pasta with the rich, oceanic flavors of shrimp creates a dish that’s both hearty and refined. By following this recipe, you’ll achieve a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, enhanced by a medley of herbs and seasonings.
Perfect for any occasion, this angel hair pasta with shrimp dish is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are transformed with a touch of culinary artistry. Enjoy a plateful of elegance and flavor in the comfort of your home.