Simple Fruit and Cheese Skewers

Spice up your dinner routine with this mouth-watering Cajun Shrimp Pasta! This dish combines tender, juicy shrimp with a creamy, flavorful Cajun sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a satisfying, indulgent meal that brings the bold flavors of the South straight to your table.

Key Information

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Number of servings: 4
• Serving size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

• For the Cajun Shrimp:

  • 450g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (15 g)

• For the Pasta and Sauce:

  • 300g (10.5 oz) linguine or fettuccine
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Method of Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then add the smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently mix to combine everything.
9. Divide the Cajun shrimp pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Tips for Culinary Success

1. Adjust the spice: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version.
2. Cook pasta al dente: For the best texture, cook the pasta just until it’s firm to the bite.
3. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so be careful not to overcook them to keep them tender and juicy.
4. Use fresh shrimp: If possible, opt for fresh shrimp over frozen for the best flavor and texture.
5. Customize the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

1. Q1: Can I use another type of pasta? A1: Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or even whole wheat pasta.
2. Q2: Is there a dairy-free option? A2: Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
3. Q3: How can I make this dish gluten-free? A3: Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.
4. Q4: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A4: You can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead of time, but for the best texture, cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
5. Q5: What can I serve with Cajun shrimp pasta? A5: A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish.

This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a delightful fusion of creamy and spicy, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. With just the right amount of heat and rich flavor, it's a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the taste of the South in every bite!