Craving a dish that brings the ocean to your plate? This garlic butter seafood pasta is the perfect blend of flavors that will transport you straight to a coastal paradise.
It’s quick, easy, and packed with fresh seafood goodness, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option that feels like a treat.
The Perfect Garlic Seafood Pasta
This mouthwatering seafood pasta is a delightful combination of spaghetti, fresh shrimp, mussels, and a fragrant garlic butter sauce. The dish is light yet satisfying, bursting with rich flavors and a hint of spice. Perfect for seafood lovers!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb mussels, cleaned and debearded
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté Garlic & Seafood: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
- Add Mussels & Wine: Next, add the cleaned mussels to the skillet. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, then cover the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mussels have opened up.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Once the mussels are cooked, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately with additional lemon wedges on the side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
Nothing beats the taste of tender pasta tossed with shrimp, mussels, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will impress everyone at your table.
The Allure of Seafood Pasta
This garlic butter seafood pasta presents a delightful way to enjoy the ocean’s bounty right at your dinner table. With tender shrimp and fresh mussels mingling amidst strands of spaghetti, every bite is a celebration of flavors.
The rich garlic butter sauce adds a deep, savory note, complemented by a splash of white wine. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes introduces just the right amount of warmth, appealing to those who appreciate a gentle kick in their meals.
Preparation Made Simple
Creating this dish is straightforward, making it an excellent option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, a critical step that ensures the perfect texture.
While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a skillet and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. This step lays the groundwork for the dish’s aromatic profile, enhancing the overall experience. The addition of shrimp and mussels transforms the skillet into a seafood lover’s paradise.
Cooking Techniques to Remember
Cooking the seafood requires a bit of finesse. Once the shrimp turns pink, the mussels join the mix along with white wine and lemon juice. Covering the skillet allows the mussels to steam, unlocking their natural juices and flavors.
Timing is crucial here; a few minutes is all it takes for the mussels to open, signaling that they are ready to enjoy. This technique not only preserves the seafood’s delicate taste but also creates a harmonious blend of ingredients in the skillet.
Garnishing for Presentation
The finishing touches can elevate this dish from good to great. A generous garnish of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color, while lemon wedges provide a fresh bite that brightens the rich flavors of the pasta.
Serve the pasta immediately for the best experience, ensuring that the seafood remains succulent and the pasta retains its warmth. The rustic wooden table setting enhances the inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement this seafood pasta, consider a crisp white wine that mirrors the dish’s flavors. A light Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the meal without overpowering it.
For a complete dining experience, pair this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the leftover sauce. These additions balance the meal and keep the focus on the star of the show: the seafood pasta.
Nutritional Considerations
This garlic butter seafood pasta serves four, making it a manageable portion for a family meal. With approximately 450 calories per serving, it offers a satisfying yet light option for those watching their intake.
Rich in protein from the shrimp and mussels, it also provides a good amount of carbohydrates from the pasta. Remember to adjust the ingredients if allergy considerations are at play, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.
FAQ
What types of seafood are best for pasta?
Shrimp, scallops, mussels, and calamari are great choices. You can mix and match your favorites for a flavorful seafood medley.
What type of pasta pairs well with seafood?
Long pasta like spaghetti or linguine is a classic choice, but short pasta like penne or farfalle also works well to hold sauces.
How can I make seafood pasta taste even better?
Use fresh seafood if possible, and enhance the dish with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. A splash of white wine in the sauce adds extra depth.