Shrimp Sauce For Pasta
A flavorful seafood pasta sauce featuring shrimp and optional scallops, infused with garlic, herbs, and fresh tomatoes, perfect for summer gatherings and seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook a few minutes until pink; remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Add chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, oregano, rosemary, and thyme to the pan.
- Cook until the mixture reduces to about 2 cups, approximately 10 minutes.
- Just before serving, add the cooked seafood back into the sauce and stir.
- Serve over cooked al dente pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after cooking the garlic. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the shrimp with chicken or use frozen shrimp. Fresh tomatoes can be swapped with canned diced tomatoes when they're out of season. To enhance the herb profile, mix in some fresh basil or thyme with the parsley, which is often used in Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this shrimp sauce over your favorite pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, for a delightful meal. Pair it with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete dinner. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the dish beautifully. For an easy and light pasta dinner, consider adding a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp and make them rubbery. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but reheating can still yield satisfying results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Sauce For Pasta contains roughly 1497 calories, with 40g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (185% of the Daily Value), and calcium (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1509mg per serving (66% 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, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce. Follow the same cooking instructions and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
What type of pasta works best with shrimp sauce?
Linguine or spaghetti are excellent choices for shrimp sauce, as their long strands capture the sauce beautifully. However, you can also use penne or fusilli for a fun twist. Choose a pasta that you enjoy and that holds sauce well for the best experience.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. Adjust the quantity according to your spice tolerance. You could also toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce just before serving to elevate the flavor profile.
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).