Spicy Shrimp and Zucchini Pasta

Spicy Shrimp and Zucchini Pasta is a deliciously flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the mild, refreshing taste of zucchini. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat, as it's kicked up a notch with the addition of chili pepper. Prepared in under an hour, it makes for an ideal weeknight meal that's both satisfying and healthy. Using fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, garlic, and parsley not only adds vibrancy to the dish but also packs it with nutrients. The recipe's simplicity allows even beginner cooks to impress their dinner guests without much fuss. Moreover, the use of olive oil adds a subtle richness that ties all the flavors together beautifully. This pasta dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings the taste of Mediterranean cuisine right to your kitchen. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a light, summery meal, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200 g pasta
• 100 g shrimp
• 2 small zucchinis
• 5 cherry tomatoes or 2 medium tomatoes, peeled
• 1 clove garlic
• A handful of parsley

Spices and Sauces:

• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 small chili pepper
• Salt

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes (Prep: 10 minutes, Cook: 30 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by preparing the vegetables. Slice the zucchinis into thin, short strips and dice the peeled tomatoes.
2. Heat a pan over low heat and add the olive oil along with a crushed garlic clove.
3. If using fresh shrimp, clean them thoroughly and add them to the pan with the garlic. Sauté them gently for about 10 minutes. If using frozen shrimp, set them aside for now.
4. Introduce the zucchini strips and diced tomatoes to the pan, stirring everything together. Allow them to soften for around 10 minutes.
5. In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
6. Once the vegetables are tender, season them with salt and add the chopped chili pepper for that spicy kick.
7. Stir in chopped parsley and the shrimp you set aside, if they were frozen. Mix well and cook on high heat, continuously stirring for about 5 minutes.
8. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the shrimp and vegetables. Combine everything thoroughly.
9. Serve the dish immediately, garnished with a drizzle of fresh olive oil.
10. Enjoy your meal!

Tips

• Choosing Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp for the best taste, but frozen shrimp works in a pinch.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili pepper to match your heat preference.
• Garlic Flavor: For a more pronounced garlic flavor, mince the garlic rather than just crushing it.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
• Protein: 20 g
• Fats: 18 g
• Carbs: 45 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp, green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.

Best Places

1. Pasta Factory - Known for reinventing classic pasta dishes with a modern twist. Location: Via della Scroffa, Rome, Italy.
2. Shrimp Shack - A coastal gem serving fresh seafood inspired dishes. Location: Ocean Drive, Miami, USA.
3. Mediterranean Marvel - Famous for its authentic Mediterranean flavors. Location: Rue Saint-Dominique, Paris, France.
4. Zucchini's Bistro - Specializes in farm-to-table dishes featuring fresh, local produce. Location: Main Street, Sydney, Australia.
5. Seafood & Spice - Offers a fiery menu with an array of shrimp dishes. Location: Clarke Quay, Singapore.
6. The Green Bowl - Offers healthy, vegetable-centric meals in a casual setting. Location: King Street, London, UK.
7. Olive & Garlic Café - Celebrated for its use of traditional olive oils and spices. Location: Av. Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil.
8. Flavor Palette - Known for creative pasta dishes that don't skimp on flavor. Location: Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, USA.
9. Herb Garden Kitchen - Incorporates fresh herbs to elevate every dish. Location: Nyhavn, Copenhagen, Denmark.
10. Zesty & Zesty Cafe - A favorite for those who love a spicy kick in every bite. Location: Carrer de Mallorca, Barcelona, Spain.