Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

This Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with gluten-free penne in a luscious, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Perfect for date nights or family gatherings, this recipe is not only delicious but easy to prepare. The blend of Italian herbs and parmesan creates a flavor that’s so enticing, it might just lead to a marriage proposal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs delivers an amazing depth of flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap shrimp for chicken or other seafood based on your preference.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free penne makes this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
• Elegant Presentation: The colorful ingredients make it visually appealing, great for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A must-have for cooking the shrimp and sauce together without crowding them.
• Mixing bowl: Helps coat the shrimp evenly with spices before cooking.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures you can cook the penne to al dente perfection.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
• ¾ tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1½ tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil (from jar)

For the Sauce

• 2½ tablespoons tomato paste (Cento recommended)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced (Cento recommended)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ⅓ teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free 1:1 flour
• 2 cups diced spinach
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons minced onion
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta

• 12 oz gluten-free penne

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How to Make Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt until evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink, opaque, and C-shaped. Do not overcook. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

In the same skillet used for cooking shrimp, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and dried basil. Sauté these ingredients for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Stir in gluten-free flour and mix well. Gradually add vegetable broth while stirring continuously. Then add heavy cream and diced spinach. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and spinach wilts.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with sauce; gently toss to coat. Return cooked shrimp to the pan and stir everything together until combined.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving immediately.

Feel free to enjoy this delicious Marry Me Shrimp Pasta at your next dinner gathering!

How to Serve Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering, serving this creamy shrimp pasta can elevate any meal.

Romantic Dinner Setting

• Candlelight: Create an intimate atmosphere by dimming the lights and adding candles to the table.
• Wine Pairing: Serve with a chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio, for a perfect match.

Family Style Serving

• Large Bowl: Present the pasta in a large bowl for guests to help themselves, making it more casual and inviting.
• Chafing Dish: Keep the pasta warm in a chafing dish during parties for easy serving.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Basil: Top each plate with chopped fresh basil for added flavor and color.
• Parmesan Shavings: Add shavings of parmesan cheese on top for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

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

• bold shrimp quality: Use extra-large shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• bold avoid overcooking: Cook shrimp until they are C-shaped; overcooking will make them tough.
• bold adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before combining with pasta; feel free to add more herbs or spices if needed.
• bold use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the overall taste significantly compared to dried ones.
• bold perfect pasta cooking: Boil gluten-free penne just until al dente to prevent mushiness when mixed with sauce.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the creamy sauce beautifully; serve warm.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring color and nutrients to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles alongside or underneath the shrimp pasta for added texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Shrimp Pasta, small mistakes can lead to a less-than-perfect dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring shrimp doneness: Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. Cook until they turn pink and form a C-shape.
• Not seasoning properly: Underseasoned pasta can be bland. Ensure you season both the shrimp and the sauce generously for a well-balanced flavor.
• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing the garlic and onion is crucial for building flavor. Don’t rush this part; allow them to become fragrant before adding other ingredients.
• Using the wrong pasta type: Make sure to use gluten-free penne as specified. Other types may not yield the same creamy texture with the sauce.
• Rushing the sauce thickening: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough for it to thicken. This gives it a rich consistency that clings perfectly to the pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The dish will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

Reheating Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and gently reheat while stirring until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Marry Me Shrimp Pasta so special?

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta combines tender shrimp with a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that elevates it beyond ordinary pasta dishes. It’s perfect for romantic dinners!

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

While sun-dried tomatoes add depth, you can use fresh tomatoes if desired. Just ensure they are well-cooked down for similar flavor intensity.

Is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish can be made ahead of time. Just remember that it’s best enjoyed fresh due to its creamy sauce.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap shrimp for chicken or even add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

How do I know when my shrimp is cooked perfectly?

Shrimp is done when it turns pink and curls into a C-shape. Avoid cooking until it’s O-shaped as that means it’s overcooked.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s date night or a family dinner, this dish impresses every time. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or veggies!

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