There’s something irresistible about creamy shrimp and pasta dishes that bring comfort and elegance to the table. Combining tender shrimp with a luscious sauce and perfectly cooked pasta creates a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Adding fresh pico de gallo gives this classic dish a vibrant twist, balancing the richness with zesty, bright flavors.
We love how this recipe blends creamy textures with the freshness of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, making every bite exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this creamy shrimp and pasta with pico de gallo is sure to impress. Let’s dive into creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any seafood lover.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Creamy Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo, we’ve carefully selected fresh and flavorful ingredients. Below you’ll find everything we need for both the luscious pasta and the vibrant pico de gallo that beautifully complements the dish.
For the Creamy Shrimp and Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon
For the Pico De Gallo
- 3 medium Roma tomatoes, finely diced
- 1/2 small white onion, finely chopped
- 1 fresh jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
| Ingredient Group | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta | 12 ounces | Cooked al dente |
| Shrimp | 1 pound | Peeled and deveined |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Minced |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | For richness |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup | Grated |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust for spice |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Unsalted |
| Parsley | 1/4 cup | Fresh, chopped |
| Lemon juice | Juice of half lemon | Freshly squeezed |
| Roma tomatoes | 3 medium | Finely diced |
| White onion | 1/2 small | Finely chopped |
| Jalapeño pepper | 1 | Seeded and chopped |
| Cilantro | 1/4 cup | Fresh, chopped |
| Lime juice | Juice of 1 lime | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt | To taste | For seasoning |
This collection of ingredients ensures our creamy shrimp pasta balances perfectly with the bright, zesty flavors of homemade pico de gallo for an unforgettable meal.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Creamy Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures both efficiency and precision throughout the cooking process. Below, we’ve outlined the must-have kitchen tools that help us achieve those delicious, vibrant flavors and creamy textures.
Essential Cooking Tools
- Large pot – to boil pasta evenly and maintain the perfect al dente texture.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking shrimp and simmering the creamy sauce.
- Mixing bowls – to combine ingredients for the fresh pico de gallo.
- Knife and cutting board – sharp knife for dicing tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro finely.
- Colander – to drain the pasta immediately after cooking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring sauces gently and preventing sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – accurate measurements of heavy cream, cheese, and seasonings keep our recipe balanced.
Additional Helpful Equipment
- Citrus juicer – extracts fresh lime juice easily for the pico de gallo’s bright, tangy kick.
- Grater – for shredding fresh Parmesan cheese to melt seamlessly into the cream sauce.
- Tongs – perfect for handling hot shrimp and tossing pasta with sauce.
Equipment Table for Quick Reference
| Equipment | Purpose | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Large pot | Boil pasta to perfect al dente | Essential |
| Large skillet | Sauté shrimp and simmer creamy sauce | Essential |
| Mixing bowls | Mix fresh pico de gallo ingredients | Essential |
| Knife and cutting board | Chop vegetables precisely | Essential |
| Colander | Drain pasta quickly | Essential |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stir sauce without scratching pan | Essential |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Measure liquids and spices accurately | Essential |
| Citrus juicer | Extract fresh lime juice | Helpful |
| Grater | Freshly shred Parmesan | Helpful |
| Tongs | Handle shrimp and toss pasta | Helpful |
By equipping ourselves properly, we set the stage for crafting a perfectly balanced Creamy Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo dish that tantalizes every sense. Let’s make sure everything is ready before we begin cooking.
Prep Work
Getting our ingredients prepped properly sets the foundation for an exceptional Creamy Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo. Let’s focus on preparing each component with care to ensure balanced flavors and textures.
Preparing the Shrimp
- Choose large shrimp, peeled and deveined for ease and optimal taste.
- Pat dry the shrimp thoroughly using paper towels to ensure they sear nicely.
- Season evenly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for extra depth.
- Set aside while we prepare the other ingredients — this allows the seasoning to develop.
Making Pico De Gallo
Fresh Pico De Gallo is what brightens our creamy shrimp and pasta with zesty contrast. Here’s how we craft it:
- Dice 3 ripe Roma tomatoes, ¼ cup white onion, 1 jalapeño (seeded for mild or with seeds for heat).
- Finely chop ¼ cup fresh cilantro for herbaceous brightness.
- Combine tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a medium bowl.
- Add the juice of 1 fresh lime and a pinch of salt to taste.
- Mix gently and refrigerate to let flavors meld while we cook the pasta and shrimp.
| Ingredient | Prep Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roma tomatoes | 3 medium | Dice finely |
| White onion | ¼ cup | Finely chopped |
| Jalapeño | 1 | Seeded or whole per heat preference |
| Fresh cilantro | ¼ cup | Finely chopped |
| Lime juice | From 1 lime | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt | Pinch | To taste |
“A vibrant pico adds the perfect fresh burst to the rich creamy base.”
Preparing Pasta
Our pasta must be cooked al dente to create the ideal texture contrast with the creamy sauce.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon salt per 4 quarts water).
- Add 12 ounces fettuccine or your preferred pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 10-12 minutes.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining — essential for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Drain pasta and set aside. Toss lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking if not combining immediately.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Water volume | 4 quarts |
| Salt amount | 1 tablespoon |
| Pasta amount | 12 ounces fettuccine |
| Cooking time | 10-12 minutes (al dente) |
| Reserved pasta water | ½ cup |
Cooking the Creamy Shrimp and Pasta
Let’s dive into the heart of our recipe by perfectly cooking the creamy shrimp and pasta. Each step from sautéing shrimp to combining everything with the sauce is crafted to preserve flavor and texture, ensuring our Creamy Shrimp And Pasta Recipes With Pico De Gallo shine.
Sautéing the Shrimp
We start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Once shimmering, we add the seasoned large shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
- Remove cooked shrimp and set aside to prevent overcooking.
Tip: Shrimp overcook quickly, becoming rubbery. Watch closely to capture that perfect tender bite.
Making the Creamy Sauce
With the shrimp rested, we prepare the sauce right in the same skillet for extra flavor.
- Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and stir gently.
- Sprinkle ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring constantly for a smooth, rich texture.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to enhance depth.
- Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creates the creamy base |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup, grated | Adds savory richness |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Aromatic flavor |
| Smoked paprika/Cayenne | Pinch | Adds subtle heat |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Balances and seasons |
Pro tip: Stir constantly to prevent cream from scorching and to melt cheese evenly.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Now we bring all components together to create our luscious dish.
- Drain the pasta reserving ½ cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Add pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy sauce.
- Toss gently, incorporating reserve pasta water little by little to get a silky, clingy coating on the noodles.
- Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp to warm through.
- Adjust seasoning if needed with salt and pepper.
Remember: The reserved pasta water contains starch that binds sauce and pasta, giving us that perfect creamy texture.
Our creamy shrimp and pasta is now ready to be topped with fresh pico de gallo for that vibrant burst of zesty flavor and color.
Assembling the Dish
Now that our creamy shrimp and pasta are cooked to perfection and our fresh pico de gallo is ready, it’s time to bring all the elements together. This stage focuses on layering flavors and textures to highlight the best of both components.
Plating the Pasta and Shrimp
We begin by portioning the pasta and shrimp elegantly to showcase their creamy richness and succulent texture.
- Use tongs to gently transfer fettuccine coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce onto warmed plates.
- Arrange the sautéed shrimp evenly atop the pasta, ensuring each serving gets a generous amount.
- If desired, drizzle a small amount of reserved pasta water over the dish to maintain a luscious creamy consistency.
- Optionally, sprinkle a little freshly grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper for presentation and an extra burst of flavor.
“Presenting the pasta and shrimp neatly sets the stage for the zesty contrast of the pico de gallo.”
Adding Pico De Gallo Topping
The final flourish is the vibrant pico de gallo — the bright, fresh counterpoint to our creamy seafood pasta.
- Spoon a heaping 2-3 tablespoons of pico de gallo over the shrimp and pasta on each plate.
- Let the colorful mix of diced Roma tomatoes, onions, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice rest lightly on the dish, providing freshness and acidity.
- For extra appeal, garnish with a small cilantro leaf or a lime wedge on the side.
| Component | Purpose | Serving Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Creamy Shrimp and Pasta | Rich and comforting base | ~1 ½ cups per plate |
| Pico de Gallo | Fresh, vibrant topping | 2-3 tbsp per plate |
| Parmesan Cheese | Flavor enhancer and garnish | 1 tsp grated |
| Black Pepper | Mild heat and visual texture | To taste |
Combining these layers carefully ensures every forkful delivers a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy notes.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Creamy Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico De Gallo, thoughtful serving choices amplify every bite. Here are key suggestions to perfect the dining experience:
- Plate Warmed Creamy Pasta and Shrimp: We always start by portioning the rich, silky pasta and tender shrimp on warmed plates. This maintains temperature and enhances the sauce’s luscious texture.
- Generous Pico de Gallo Topping: Layer a vibrant, freshly made pico de gallo atop each serving. The bright acidity and herbaceous notes balance the creaminess beautifully.
- Garnishes to Add Depth: Finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few twists of cracked black pepper. These add umami and a slight peppery kick.
- Accompaniments for Contrast:
- Serve with garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to soak up the luscious sauce.
- A light mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint.
- For spice lovers, pass around extra jalapeño slices or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Beverage Pairings:
- A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the seafood’s delicate flavor.
- Sparkling water with lime keeps the palate refreshed without overpowering the dish.
| Serving Element | Purpose | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Warm Plates | Keeps pasta creamy and hot | Warm in oven at 150°F for 10 mins |
| Pico de Gallo | Balances richness with zesty flash | Prepare fresh, refrigerate briefly for melded flavors |
| Parmesan & Black Pepper | Adds savory depth & a mild kick | Grate fresh for best flavor |
| Garlic Bread or Toast | Soaks up sauce, adds texture | Toast until golden brown |
| Mixed Green Salad | Refreshing palate cleanser | Use lemon vinaigrette for brightness |
| Wine Pairings | Complement seafood and creaminess | Choose crisp white varietals |
“Serving our creamy shrimp and pasta with a fresh pico de gallo topping not only enhances the flavors but creates a visually stunning plate that invites you to savor every bite.“
By following these serving tips we ensure that each meal is a harmonious blend of textures, temperatures, and tastes that truly showcase the bold flavors of this dish.
Storage and Leftover Tips
To preserve the flavors and texture of our Creamy Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo recipe, proper storage is essential. Follow these detailed steps to keep leftovers fresh and delicious.
1. Cooling Before Storage
Allow the creamy shrimp pasta and pico de gallo to cool to room temperature. Avoid placing hot food directly into the refrigerator as this can cause condensation and increase the risk of spoilage.
2. Separate Containers
Store the shrimp pasta and pico de gallo in separate airtight containers. This prevents the pico de gallo’s fresh, zesty flavor from becoming soggy or overpowering the creamy pasta.
| Item | Storage Container | Refrigerator Life |
|---|---|---|
| Creamy Shrimp Pasta | Airtight container | 3 to 4 days |
| Pico de Gallo | Airtight container | Up to 2 days |
3. Refrigeration Tips
Place containers on the middle shelf of the refrigerator where the temperature is most consistent. Keep them at or below 40°F (4°C) for optimal safety and freshness.
4. Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat the creamy shrimp and pasta gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp or breaking the sauce emulsion:
- Use a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water or heavy cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
- Stir frequently until heated through.
Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture and flavor integrity.
5. Pico de Gallo Refresh
Since pico de gallo is freshest when cold and uncooked, serve it chilled as a topping right from the fridge. If it tastes a bit muted, stir in a few drops of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
6. Freezing Considerations
We recommend avoiding freezing the creamy shrimp pasta as the texture of shrimp and pasta can degrade, and the sauce may separate. The pico de gallo should never be frozen, as it will lose its crispness and fresh taste.
By following these storage and reheating tips, our Creamy Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo remains a delightful, fresh-tasting meal even days after cooking.
Conclusion
This creamy shrimp and pasta recipe paired with fresh pico de gallo brings together the best of rich and vibrant flavors. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is impressive, perfect for any occasion. With the right ingredients and preparation, we can easily create a meal that delights every palate.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of textures and tastes. It’s a reminder that simple, quality ingredients can come together to make something truly special in our kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for creamy shrimp and pasta with pico de gallo?
You need fettuccine, large shrimp, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, smoked paprika or cayenne for the pasta. For pico de gallo, use Roma tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice.
What kitchen tools do I need to prepare this dish?
Essential tools include a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for cooking shrimp and sauce, mixing bowls for pico de gallo, a knife, cutting board, citrus juicer, grater, and tongs.
How do I prepare the shrimp and pico de gallo?
Use large, peeled, deveined shrimp, pat dry, and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika or cayenne. Dice tomatoes, onions, jalapeños; mix with cilantro and lime juice, then refrigerate to meld flavors.
How should I cook the shrimp and pasta sauce?
Sauté shrimp in olive oil until pink, avoiding overcrowding the pan. For the sauce, sauté garlic, add heavy cream, then Parmesan cheese gradually, seasoning to taste.
How do I combine and serve the dish?
Toss cooked pasta into the sauce with shrimp, adding reserved pasta water to adjust creaminess. Plate, top generously with pico de gallo, garnish with Parmesan and black pepper.
What are some good accompaniments for creamy shrimp and pasta?
Serve with garlic bread or a light mixed green salad. Pair with chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lime for a refreshing complement.
How do I store leftovers to maintain freshness?
Cool the dish to room temperature, store pasta and pico de gallo separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate pasta for 3-4 days, pico de gallo up to 2 days; avoid freezing.
Can I freeze creamy shrimp and pasta with pico de gallo?
Freezing is not recommended as it can ruin the texture of both the shrimp and the creamy sauce. It’s best to enjoy the dish fresh or refrigerate and consume within a few days.
How do I reheat the leftover pasta without drying it out?
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to maintain creaminess. Avoid high heat to prevent overcooking shrimp.
What makes pico de gallo a good topping for creamy shrimp pasta?
Pico de gallo adds fresh, zesty notes with tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and lime. It balances the rich creaminess of the pasta and shrimp with vibrant, tangy flavors.