Buttery Pasta With Shrimp
Creamy buttery pasta with tender shrimp, fresh tomatoes, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that appeals to seafood and pasta lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the shrimp in boiling water for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a 3-quart saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat (5 to 7 minutes).
- Add chopped green pepper, chopped onion, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and oregano. Saute for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the cooked shrimp and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in the cooked spaghetti and blend well.
- Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly (3 to 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat, add chopped tomatoes, cover, and let stand for 1 minute or until tomatoes are heated.
- Sprinkle with cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your buttery pasta with shrimp, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest for brightness. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter is a great substitute. For added texture, toss in some cooked asparagus or spinach. If you're short on time, pre-cooked shrimp can also work well. For a lighter version, swap out spaghetti for zucchini noodles.
Serving Suggestions
This buttery pasta with shrimp is delightful on its own, but pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving with a glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the shrimp. For a fun appetizer, try serving with Pizza Party Dip or Tuna Swirls to round out your seafood menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to warm evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttery Pasta With Shrimp contains roughly 1220 calories, with 16g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (194% of the Daily Value), and calcium (151% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1990mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp can be used in place of frozen. Just ensure they are peeled and deveined. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque, which will take less time than frozen shrimp. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as fresh shrimp cooks faster.
What can I substitute for green peppers?
If green peppers aren't available, bell peppers of any color will work well, or you might try using diced zucchini or yellow squash for a different flavor and texture. For more spice, jalapeños can be added, but be mindful of the heat level.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make buttery pasta with shrimp gluten-free, simply substitute the spaghetti with a gluten-free pasta variety made from rice or quinoa. Be sure to check the labels of all other ingredients, especially the margarine, to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).