Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta : If you’re looking for an easy yet elegant meal, shrimp and angel hair pasta is the perfect go-to recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent but can be whipped up in no time.
Why Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta is a Must-Try Recipe
This dish stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Angel hair pasta, known for its thin, delicate strands, pairs beautifully with tender shrimp, creating a light meal that’s satisfying without being too heavy.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta
Don’t overcook the shrimp. Shrimp cooks fast—typically 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery, so keep an eye on it.
Reserve pasta water. The starchy pasta water is liquid gold—it helps bind the sauce and gives it a silky texture.
Use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley elevate the flavors in this dish. If you can, avoid pre-minced garlic and bottled lemon juice.
Serve immediately. Angel hair pasta tends to clump as it cools, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove.
Variations to Try
Creamy Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta
For a creamy twist, add ½ cup of heavy cream to the sauce after the shrimp is cooked. Let it simmer and thicken before tossing the pasta. You’ll end up with a rich, velvety sauce perfect for indulgent dinners.
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta
For a more buttery flavor, increase the butter to 3 tablespoons and reduce the olive oil. This gives the dish a luscious garlic-butter base that’s absolutely divine.
Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta
Shrimp scampi is a popular variation of this dish. Use extra lemon juice and double the garlic to create a more zesty, garlicky pasta dish.
Vegetable Add-ins
For a healthier variation, toss in some sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added texture and nutrition. These veggies complement the shrimp beautifully.
How to Serve Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta
This dish is incredibly versatile, so you can serve it in many ways:
- As a main course: Pair with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to keep the meal light and balanced.
- As a romantic dinner: Serve with a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the citrus notes in the pasta.
- Family-style: Make a large batch and serve it family-style at your next gathering. The bright, lemony flavors are sure to impress!
How to Store and Reheat Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh because the pasta may become mushy after sitting.
Reheating:
To reheat, add a little olive oil or butter to a skillet and toss the pasta over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce as it reheats. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use?
It’s best to use large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for this recipe. Frozen shrimp works perfectly if you don’t have access to fresh. Just thaw them before cooking by running under cold water for a few minutes.
Can I use other types of pasta?
While angel hair pasta is perfect for this recipe because of its light texture, you can substitute with spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. Just note that these thicker pastas will require a longer cooking time and have a heavier bite.
What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, simply replace it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. It will still create a flavorful sauce without the alcohol.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can easily omit the butter and replace it with more olive oil for a dairy-free version. The result is still rich and delicious.
Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta
If you're looking for an easy yet elegant meal, shrimp and angel hair pasta is the perfect go-to recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 14 oz can petite diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 8 oz angel hair pasta (whole wheat, gluten-free, or high-fiber)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the shrimp with oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. - Add shrimp and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and white wine. Season with salt and pepper and cook for another minute.
- Remove from heat, stir in half and half, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.
- Toss the sauce with the cooked pasta and divide onto 4 plates or shallow bowls. Enjoy
Conclusion
Shrimp and angel hair pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is quick, versatile, and can be adapted to your preferences. By following the steps above and incorporating some of the suggested variations, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time. Perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, shrimp and angel hair pasta is a surefire way to impress!
