Ziti And Shrimp
Ziti combined with tender shrimp and fresh vegetables, coated in a creamy sauce, creating a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ziti according to package directions. Drain well, place in a large serving dish, cover with foil and keep warm.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add broccoli, red pepper, yellow pepper, green onions, and oregano. Cover and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the shrimp, mandarin rind, garlic, salt, and ground ginger. Cook uncovered for 4 to 6 minutes or until shrimp is bright pink.
- Stir in the half and half, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cook covered for 2 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked ziti and toss well.
- Place well-drained mandarins over the top and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a bit more flavor, consider adding minced garlic along with the vegetables. If you don't have half and half, a mix of whole milk and cream can work as a substitute. You can also use frozen shrimp; just make sure they are thawed and patted dry before cooking. This dish can be customized with other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This ziti and shrimp dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A glass of white wine pairs beautifully with the flavors, enhancing the meal experience. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like a classic Caesar salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ziti and shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may result in rubbery shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ziti And Shrimp contains roughly 604 calories, with 12g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (140% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (100% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 657mg per serving (29% 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 other types of pasta instead of ziti?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with other pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose, as some may require more or less time to cook.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables. You can also use a spicy shrimp seasoning blend if you have one on hand to enhance the flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ziti and shrimp mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently when ready to serve. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to cook the pasta fresh just before serving.
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).