Shrimp Arrabbiata Recipe Easy and Spicy Pasta Dish

When it comes to bold, flavorful Italian dishes, Shrimp Arrabbiata is a standout favorite. This fiery, tomato-based pasta combines succulent shrimp with a spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds and leaves you craving more.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is both simple to prepare and deeply satisfying. The heat from red pepper flakes perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp and acidity of ripe tomatoes, creating a harmonious balance that defines authentic arrabbiata sauce.

In this post, we’ll guide you through every step to create your own shrimp arrabbiata masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Italian cuisine, you’ll find the instructions easy to follow and adaptable to your preferences.

Get ready to dive into a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Arrabbiata is a delightful twist on the classic spicy tomato sauce, featuring tender shrimp that cook quickly and soak up all the vibrant flavors of the sauce. This recipe is:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, chili flakes, and fresh tomatoes creates a robust, spicy sauce.
• Healthy and light: Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making this meal nutritious yet satisfying.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite herbs to make it your own.
• Great for entertaining: Elegant enough for guests but simple enough for a casual family dinner.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander for draining pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Serving plates or bowls

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté the garlic and chili flakes: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring frequently for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add sugar if desired to balance the acidity. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook the shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp to the sauce in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.
6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or chili flakes as desired. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a milder sauce, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. For extra depth, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering.

• Vegetable additions: Toss in sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition.
• Protein swaps: Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken breast if preferred.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties or zucchini noodles.
• Fresh tomatoes: Use fresh ripe tomatoes instead of canned for a lighter, fresher taste when in season.
• Herbs: Experiment with oregano or parsley along with basil for different aromatic profiles.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Arrabbiata pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the spiciness. Crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.

For beverages, try a chilled glass of dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with lemon to refresh your palate between bites. To complete your Italian-themed dinner, consider serving a light dessert such as panna cotta or gelato.

Conclusion

Making shrimp arrabbiata at home is a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. With its bold flavors, quick preparation, and customizable spice level, it’s a recipe that fits into any lifestyle or occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish will impress with its perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory goodness.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients or add your favorite veggies to make it uniquely yours. And remember, the key to great arrabbiata lies in using quality tomatoes and fresh shrimp.

Try this recipe tonight and discover why shrimp arrabbiata is a beloved classic that never fails to deliver satisfaction!

For more delicious seafood pasta dishes, check out our Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, Creamy Tuscan Shrimp, and Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipes.

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