Description
A delightful combination of tender shrimp and al dente pasta in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, perfect for any weeknight dinner or gathering.
Ingredients
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 mini bell pepper or half a regular bell pepper, sliced thin
- 80g pasta (any kind such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 8–10 shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Pinch of salt and pepper (for seasoning shrimp)
- ¼ tsp Cajun seasoning (for shrimp)
- Cooking spray or 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp Cajun seasoning
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp dried parsley
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅓ to ½ cup half and half cream
- ½ cup pasta water (add gradually for sauce consistency)
Instructions
- Begin by seasoning the shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, and add cooking spray or olive oil.
- Once hot, sear the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and crispy. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic and chopped shallots until fragrant and golden.
- Add the sliced bell pepper, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, dried parsley, chili flakes (if using), and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the half and half cream, mixing thoroughly.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Allow it to simmer gently.
- Return the seared shrimp to the pan, adding the cooked pasta as well.
- Toss everything together to create a uniform coating of sauce. Let it simmer for another 1–2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Taste the dish, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and garnish as desired.
Notes
Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
