Cajun-Spiced Shrimp With Pasta
Spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp paired with pasta, fresh vegetables, and herbs create a flavorful, satisfying dish perfect for seafood lovers and quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 tsp. paprika ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. thyme ⓘ
- 1 stick butter ⓘ
- 2 cloves garlic ⓘ
- 1 lb. fresh shrimp ⓘ
- 12 oz. pasta (spirals) ⓘ
- 1 small zucchini ⓘ
- 1/4 c. minced green onions ⓘ
- 2 Roma tomatoes ⓘ
- 1/4 c. chopped fresh parsley ⓘ
- Parmesan cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine paprika, cayenne, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and chopped garlic in a small bowl.
- Cook pasta according to package directions. When there are about 3 minutes remaining, melt 1/2 stick butter in a frypan.
- Add spices and peeled shrimp to the frypan and sauté until pink, about 2 to 2 1/2 minutes.
- Drain pasta and return it to the pot.
- Melt 3 tablespoons butter in the pasta pot, then add the cooked pasta back in and stir in the shrimp mixture.
- Keep warm during preparation.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the frypan.
- Cook diced zucchini and minced green onions for 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes and chopped parsley, cooking for a few seconds.
- Combine the sautéed vegetables with the pasta and shrimp mixture, mixing well.
- Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider marinating the shrimp in the spice mixture for 15-30 minutes before cooking. If you don't have fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp work well too; just ensure they're fully thawed and patted dry before sautéing. You can substitute zucchini with bell peppers or asparagus for a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, use whole grain pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread or a light citrus vinaigrette to enhance the flavors. For a festive touch, consider serving with a side of Catfish Cakes for a heartier spread. A glass of white wine or iced tea complements this dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. If freezing, do so before adding the cheese and vegetables.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun-Spiced Shrimp With Pasta contains roughly 975 calories, with 54g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (147% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (137% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1751mg per serving (76% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to package directions to ensure the pasta is perfectly al dente.
What can I use instead of butter for a dairy-free version?
You can replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. Coconut oil is another good option, adding a subtle sweetness. Just be mindful of the flavors in your seasoning to maintain the Cajun profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper or include sliced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. You could also serve with a spicy hot sauce on the side for those who prefer extra kick in their dish.
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).