Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe

The key to creating this healthy, restaurant-quality spicy shrimp pasta is to simmer the shrimp directly in the sauce: this ensures they stay tender and absorb the spicy arrabbiata flavor. It’s delicious served with a sprinkle of parmesan and a side of garlic bread.

Jump to Recipe

Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccini
• 1½ tbsp olive oil
• 1 head broccoli (cut into small florets, about 5 cups)
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (25 oz) jar spicy arrabbiata pasta sauce
• 1 lb raw large shrimp (peeled, deveined — frozen works fine)
• 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 tbsp parmesan, finely grated (optional)

How To Make Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe

1. Boil the pasta: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain the noodles well and set aside without rinsing.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets, chopped peppers, and salt, stirring for 2 minutes before adding the minced shallot. Cook for another 3 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
3. Simmer the sauce: Toss the minced garlic into the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the arrabbiata sauce, let it bubble for a minute, and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the shrimp: Add the raw shrimp directly into the simmering sauce. Stir well and cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 5 minutes maximum.
5. Combine ingredients: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well with tongs to coat the noodles and distribute the shrimp and vegetables evenly.
6. Garnish and serve: Top with the fresh chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese, if using, and serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

• How to adjust the spice level: If you find the arrabbiata sauce too spicy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pinch of sugar to help balance the heat.
• Can I use frozen shrimp?: Yes, frozen shrimp works great for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them under cold running water and pat them dry before adding them to the sauce.
• Vegetable variations: You can easily swap the broccoli for asparagus, zucchini, or spinach depending on what you have on hand.
• How to keep shrimp tender: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while they simmer; remove the pan from the heat as soon as they turn opaque to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

What To Serve With Spicy Shrimp Pasta

This dish is a complete meal in a bowl, but it pairs well with light sides that balance the heat.

• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• A crisp Caesar salad
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• A glass of cold white wine, such as Pinot Grigio

How To Store Spicy Shrimp Pasta

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the pasta may become mushy and the shrimp can become tough when reheated.

Spicy Shrimp Pasta Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~460 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 8g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs