Description
A zesty and garlicky Calabrian chili pasta with shrimp, perfect for spice lovers. This restaurant-quality dish is bold, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Calabrian chili paste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/3 cup white wine
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Shrimp – In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce – In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in the Calabrian chili paste and cook for about 30 seconds.
- Deglaze with Wine – Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer and reduce slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Lemon Juice – Toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them soften for a few minutes. Stir in the fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp – Return the shrimp to the pan along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Finish with Cheese and Herbs – Remove from heat and mix in grated parmesan and fresh parsley.
- Serve and Enjoy – Plate the pasta and garnish with extra chili flakes and parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Milder Heat – Reduce the amount of Calabrian chili paste or use a milder chili variety.
- Vegetarian Option – Replace shrimp with mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted eggplant.
- Creamy Twist – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone for a richer sauce.
- Extra Protein – Add scallops, chicken, or even pancetta for a different twist.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, boiling
- Cuisine: italian
Keywords: Calabrian chili pasta, spicy shrimp pasta, garlicky pasta, Italian seafood pasta, chili garlic shrimp