Seafood Pasta, a delightful Italian classic, combines the fresh flavors of the sea with the rich and comforting taste of pasta. This dish is a favorite in coastal regions of Italy, bringing together shrimp, clams, and a delicious tomato sauce. Perfect for seafood lovers, this recipe is easy to follow and results in a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Inspiring Quote
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” – Virginia Woolf
Description of the Recipe
Seafood Pasta, a beloved dish from the coastal regions of Italy, is a perfect blend of fresh seafood and rich, comforting pasta. This dish features succulent shrimp and tender clams cooked in a savory tomato sauce with garlic and white wine. It’s a wonderful representation of Italian culinary tradition, bringing the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. The history of Seafood Pasta is deeply rooted in the fishing communities of Italy, where fresh seafood is a staple.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or linguine
- 200g fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 200g fresh clams, cleaned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Procedure
- Prepare the Seafood:
- Rinse the shrimp and clams under cold water. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the Seafood:
- Add the shrimp and clams to the skillet. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until the shrimp are pink and the clams have opened.
- Discard any clams that do not open.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce and seafood. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Seafood Pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Seafood Pasta, a dish that brings the taste of Italy’s coastal regions to your home. Perfect for a special dinner or a casual meal with friends and family.
Additional Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of clam juice or seafood stock to the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preference.
Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor.
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
Region of Origin
Seafood Pasta is particularly popular in the coastal regions of Italy, such as Naples and Sicily, where fresh seafood is readily available.
Beverage Pairings
- Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Beer: A light lager or pilsner complements the seafood flavors.
- Non-alcoholic: Try a sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
