Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. This recipe features succulent shrimp nestled in a creamy, herb-infused sauce, making it perfect for romantic evenings, family dinners, or any special occasion. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation will surely impress your guests and make them fall in love with this simple yet elegant meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of creamy sauce, fresh herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a taste that’s both comforting and gourmet.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a romantic date night, this dish fits the bill beautifully.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans used, you’ll get to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make preparing Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Necessary for cooking the linguine pasta evenly while providing enough space for boiling.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing shrimp and creating the creamy sauce without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements of ingredients, which is key to achieving great flavor.

Ingredients

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta dazzles with robust Italian flavors in just 30 minutes. Featuring a creamy sauce brimming with fresh herbs and spices.

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces linguine pasta

For the Sauce

• 1 pound shrimp, (peeled and deveined)
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 teaspoons garlic, (minced)
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, (grated)
• 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, (drained and chopped)
• ⅓ cup fresh basil, (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt before adding the linguine pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place the shrimp in the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp turns pink on both sides (about 2-3 minutes). Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in flour, mixing well to create a roux. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking continuously until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the mixture is thickened, reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, chopped basil, paprika, and additional seasoning if desired. Allow it to simmer gently.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Return shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Gently fold in cooked linguine until everything is well-coated with sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately on plates garnished with extra basil or parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta!

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a delightful dish that can impress at any table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a romantic evening, how you serve it can elevate the experience even more.

Elegant Plate Presentation

• Use a large, shallow bowl to present the pasta elegantly. This allows the vibrant colors of the shrimp and sun-dried tomatoes to stand out.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top before serving. This adds a burst of color and enhances the dish’s aromatic profile.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Serve with warm garlic bread on the side. The buttery flavor complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Add Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Place lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their pasta. This adds a refreshing zing that balances the richness of the sauce.

Offer Grated Parmesan

• Provide additional grated parmesan cheese at the table. Many enjoy sprinkling extra cheese over their pasta for added flavor.

How to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

To ensure your Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and herbs significantly enhance flavor compared to frozen or dried options.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook linguine until al dente. It should be firm to the bite, as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
• Incorporate Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider adding spinach or zucchini into the dish while cooking.
• Keep Sauce Creamy: Stir in cream gradually and avoid boiling it too hard; this keeps your sauce silky smooth.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal taste and texture, serve your dish right after preparing it; this helps maintain its freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta can complete your meal perfectly. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese makes for a classic accompaniment.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until tender provides color and nutrition.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled in olive oil offers a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing flavor profile alongside your main dish.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair well with shrimp.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a summery touch that complements Italian flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Using cold shrimp: Always ensure your shrimp are at room temperature before cooking. Cold shrimp can cook unevenly, resulting in a rubbery texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook the linguine until al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and won’t hold up in the creamy sauce.
• Neglecting to season: Season each layer of your dish. Failing to add salt and spices can lead to bland flavors in your final dish.
• Skipping the fresh herbs: Fresh basil is crucial for flavor. Using dried herbs instead can diminish the fresh taste of your dish.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: Give the sauce time to thicken after adding flour. This step ensures a rich and creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream. Stir until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta?

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is a delightful dish featuring shrimp cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil served over linguine.

Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Yes! Chicken works beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure it is cooked thoroughly before combining it with the sauce.

How do I customize Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences.

What should I serve alongside this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta, enhancing the meal without overpowering its flavors.

Conclusion

Marry Me Shrimp with Pasta is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor that makes it perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its creamy richness and customizable ingredients, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to explore different variations; you might just create a new favorite!

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