Spaghetti with Shrimps in Tomato Sauce

Spaghetti with Shrimps in Tomato Sauce

Spaghetti with shrimps in tomato sauce is a delightful and satisfying dish that beautifully combines the flavors of fresh seafood with the rich, tangy essence of tomato sauce. This dish not only showcases the versatility of spaghetti as a pasta choice but also highlights the succulent nature of shrimp, making it a popular option among seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

To prepare this dish, you will need a selection of high-quality ingredients. Start with a generous portion of spaghetti, typically around 400 grams for four servings. Fresh or frozen shrimp should be used; if using frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed and deveined for optimal flavor and texture. The tomato sauce can be made from scratch using ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a mix of herbs like basil and oregano, or you can opt for a good quality store-bought version for convenience.

Preparation

Begin by cooking the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water, following the package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the tomato sauce. In a skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant. Next, incorporate diced tomatoes, either fresh or canned, along with a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Once the sauce has thickened, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and chewy. When the shrimp are cooked to perfection, toss in a handful of fresh basil for a burst of flavor and aroma.

Combining the Ingredients

After draining the spaghetti, reserve a small cup of the pasta water, which can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce if necessary. Add the spaghetti directly to the skillet with the shrimp and tomato sauce, tossing everything together gently to ensure that the pasta is thoroughly coated in the rich sauce. If the mixture appears too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, plate the spaghetti generously, ensuring an even distribution of shrimp and sauce. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil can enhance the dish further, providing a silky finish. Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread and a crisp green salad to complete the meal.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with shrimps in tomato sauce is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing dish that brings together vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy all who partake. The combination of tender shrimp, flavorful tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti creates a harmonious balance that is both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients: simple, total time: 30 min., 2 servings

Preparation:

Thoroughly wash the tomatoes and chop them finely.
Finely chop the garlic.
Combine the chopped tomatoes, garlic, and two basil leaves in a blender and blend until a smooth mixture is achieved.
Heat olive oil in a pan over low to moderate heat, add the shrimp, and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Add the blended tomato mixture to the pan and simmer for approximately 5 minutes, stirring continuously.
Incorporate the tomato passata sauce, stir thoroughly, and simmer for about 13-15 minutes, gradually adding a small amount of water as needed.
Add the spaghetti water and a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve three tablespoons of the spaghetti cooking liquid, then drain the spaghetti well. Immediately add the spaghetti to the tomato cream along with the reserved liquid. Mix thoroughly and incorporate the lemon zest.
Serve warm, garnished with basil leaves.

Buon appetito!

"May your kitchen always be filled with wonderful aromas, your table with good food and your heart with the joy of sharing" ☕❤️🌹

NOTE:

Instead of fresh tomatoes, you can use tomato pulp or tomato passata sauce.
Make sure, if you don't have fresh tomatoes, that when you make this sauce, at least blend it with a little water, fresh basil, and garlic, because basil is the one that gives this sauce a phenomenal taste, along with lemon peel.
Instead of spaghetti, you can use tagliatelle, fettuccine, linguine or bucatine.
Try to eat the rest of the food the same day.