Pasta Primavera With Shrimp
Pasta Primavera with Shrimp offers a delightful combination of tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and al dente fettucine, accented with garlic and Parmesan. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner, appealing to seafood and pasta lovers alike seeking a rich, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook fettucine in salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse with hot water.
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of margarine and sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until tender.
- Add large cooked shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, then remove and keep warm.
- Add 2 tablespoons of margarine and whipping cream to the skillet; heat until margarine melts.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- In a large saucepan, combine the cooked fettucine, broccoli, and the cream mixture; cook until thoroughly heated.
- Transfer to a warm serving platter and spoon the shrimp over the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half for the whipping cream. Fresh vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, can also be added for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer, you can replace the fettucine with linguini to switch up the texture. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they are already cooked and just need to be heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This Pasta Primavera With Shrimp pairs beautifully with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For a complete meal, serve with garlic bread on the side and a crisp white wine. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for an added burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Primavera With Shrimp contains roughly 318 calories, with 17g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value) and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1086mg per serving (47% 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 frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help prevent excess moisture in your dish. Follow the same cooking instructions as for cooked shrimp, but adjust the sauté time as needed.
What vegetables can I add to this dish?
Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus to enhance the dish. Simply sauté them with the onion and garlic until tender. This not only adds color but also increases the nutritional value of your meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time, such as cooking the pasta and making the sauce. However, it's best to combine everything just before serving to maintain the pasta's texture. If making ahead, store the components separately and assemble when ready to serve.
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).