Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a vibrant and fiery Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with a robust and spicy tomato sauce. This pasta dish is known for its bold flavor profile and delightful heat, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. The combination of garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings perfectly to al dente spaghetti or linguine. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, Shrimp Fra Diavolo is sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Shrimp Fra Diavolo recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and simplicity. The dish is packed with bold flavors that are both satisfying and invigorating, thanks to the spicy tomato sauce and tender shrimp. It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Plus, it’s naturally low in calories and high in protein, fitting perfectly into a balanced diet while still feeling indulgent.
Tips and Tricks
1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp will yield the best flavor and texture. If possible, opt for wild-caught shrimp rather than farmed.
2. Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less red pepper flakes and adjust to your taste as the sauce cooks.
3. Pasta Cooking Water: Save some pasta cooking water to add to the sauce if it thickens too much; it helps to keep the sauce silky and smooth.
4. Herbs for Freshness: Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the dish’s flavor—add them at the end for a burst of freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make it rubbery. Cook until just opaque.
2. Too Much Spice: Monitor red pepper flakes closely; you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
3. Not Enough Sauce: Ensure you have enough sauce to coat the pasta evenly. If it seems dry, add more crushed tomatoes or pasta water.
4. Skipping the Garlic: Garlic adds depth; don’t skip it! Sauté until fragrant but not browned.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare several components of Shrimp Fra Diavolo ahead of time. The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Cooked shrimp can also be refrigerated for a day or two before adding to the sauce. Just remember to reheat gently to maintain their texture!
Recipe Variations
1. Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.
2. Different Proteins: Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or even a mixture of seafood for a seafood medley.
3. Spice Alternatives: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for a unique twist.
4. Pasta Alternatives: Swap the traditional spaghetti or linguine for whole grain or gluten-free pasta.
How to Serve
Serve your Shrimp Fra Diavolo in a large, shallow bowl for a rustic feel. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add a creamy richness. Pair it with a slice of crusty garlic bread and a light side salad to complete the meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red like Chianti to complement the spiciness of the dish. A refreshing cocktail, such as a classic mojito, can also balance the heat. As for side dishes, a simple Caesar salad or roasted vegetables would work beautifully, while a light lemon sorbet can serve as a refreshing dessert contrast.
How to Store
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the shrimp and sauce separately for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large skillet or sauté pan, a pot for boiling pasta, a colander, and a wooden spoon for stirring. If you don’t have a large skillet, a Dutch oven or any deep pan will work as well.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. For those with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free pasta options are widely available. If you’re looking to make a vegan version, consider using tofu or tempeh instead of shrimp and a plant-based cream to create a creamy sauce.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh heirloom tomatoes for a sweeter sauce. In winter, opt for canned San Marzano tomatoes to maintain a rich flavor profile. Fresh herbs like basil are best in summer, while dried herbs can be used in cooler months.
Cost Breakdown
This recipe typically costs around $15-$20 for four servings, which is budget-friendly for a gourmet meal. To save costs, consider using frozen shrimp instead of fresh, and canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones.
Kitchen Hacks
1. Quick Garlic Peeling: Smash garlic cloves with the side of a chef’s knife to make peeling easier.
2. Easy Shrimp Cleaning: Use kitchen shears to quickly devein shrimp without fuss.
3. No More Tears: Chill onions in the fridge before chopping to reduce tear-inducing compounds.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw them properly before cooking.
- How long does it take to cook the shrimp? Shrimp usually cooks in 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the size.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and just add the shrimp when ready to serve.
Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a vibrant and fiery Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with a robust and spicy tomato sauce. This pasta dish is known for its bold flavor profile and delightful heat, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound spaghetti or linguine
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Pour in the white wine and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the sauce, cooking for 3-4 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Serve: Plate the Shrimp Fra Diavolo, garnishing with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 492Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 240mgSodium 1183mgCarbohydrates 51gFiber 3gSugar 3gProtein 35g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a delightful culinary adventure that brings the heat and flavor of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. With its fresh ingredients and bold spices, this dish is not only delicious but also impressively simple to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy every spicy bite!
