Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey into the heart of Italian cuisine with this vibrant Shrimp Fra Diavolo recipe! If you’re looking to impress your family or indulge in a cozy dinner for yourself, this dish is a perfect choice. With succulent shrimp simmered in a spicy tomato sauce paired with al dente pasta, every bite bursts with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe approachable and rewarding!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound spaghetti or linguine
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the kitchen fills with a fragrant aroma.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and white wine, stirring everything together to create a luscious sauce.
- Season with sugar, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente; then drain and set aside.
- In the last 5 minutes of the sauce simmering, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
- Gently toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce until everything is well coated and invitingly combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the burst of Italian flavors!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes! You can also customize this dish by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. If you have leftovers, they make for a delicious meal the next day—just reheat gently!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the sauté technique is key in this recipe. It allows the onions and garlic to release their flavors fully into the dish. Additionally, simmering the sauce patiently melds the ingredients while enhancing the rich, hearty taste. Cooking the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque ensures they remain tender and succulent rather than rubbery.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What wine should I use?
A dry white wine works best, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These add depth and enhance the flavors of the sauce.
Can I substitute the pasta type?
Yes! Any long pasta such as fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta works beautifully here.
Conclusion
There’s nothing like a comforting plate of Shrimp Fra Diavolo to lift your spirits and satisfy your cravings for pasta. Whether enjoyed on a weeknight or served during a special gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Relish each bite, and remember that cooking is all about bringing love and flavor to the table. Buon appetito!