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Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp

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Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp is an irresistible, flavorful dish that combines the bold, spicy heat of Calabrian chili peppers with the richness of garlic and succulent shrimp. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves a little heat with their pasta, offering a perfect balance of spice and savory flavors. The shrimp are seared to perfection and paired with a robust, garlicky chili sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to impress with its complex flavors and ease of preparation.

Ingredients

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Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp:

  • 12 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste (or more, depending on spice preference)
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added spice)
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • ½ cup white wine (optional, or substitute with chicken broth)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp:

  1. Season the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Sear the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden.
  2. Add the Chili Paste: Stir in the Calabrian chili paste and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute, allowing the chili paste to infuse the oil.
  3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let the liquid simmer and reduce by half for 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Finish the Dish:

  1. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta.
  2. Add Shrimp and Lemon: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing well to combine.
  3. Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more chili paste if desired.

Garnish and Serve:

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Serve immediately.

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