Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo
The first time I made Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo, it was a warm summer evening, and the air was filled with a scent of fresh herbs. I had invited friends over for dinner, wanting to impress them with something special yet simple. As I cooked, the aroma of sautĂ©ed garlic and shrimp filled my kitchen, coaxing everyone closer. The bright, spicy flavor of the dish danced on my taste buds, a perfect balance that made my heart sing. The vibrant colors of the fresh basil and crushed tomatoes made the plate as delightful to look at as it was to eat. That evening turned into a cherished memory, one that always beckons me back to the kitchen when summer rolls around. It’s truly a recipe that brings friends together and sparks conversations.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Medium
550 kcal
25 g
Standard
20 g
Skillet, Frying Pan, Peeler, Large Pot, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon
Why This Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo Hits Different
The Simplicity of Fresh Ingredients
What I love about Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo is its ability to shine with just a handful of fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—jumbo shrimp brings sweetness, while crushed tomatoes provide a rich base that ties everything together.
A Symphony of Flavors
This dish is a symphony of flavors, where the heat from crushed red pepper meets the savory notes of garlic and onion. The result? A delectable sauce that clings beautifully to the linguini!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo is not just a summer dish; it’s perfect for casual dinners, date nights, or even a cozy solo meal. It’s versatile enough to adapt to any occasion, bringing a touch of elegance to your table.
Quick to Prepare
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. Within a half hour, you can transform your kitchen into an Italian trattoria, impressing your guests without spending all day cooking.
Customizable for Everyone
Feeling adventurous? This dish allows you to customize the heat level and even swap out the shrimp for other proteins like chicken or tofu—perfect for accommodating different palates and dietary preferences.
Pairs Beautifully with Wine
Though I won’t mention wine, this dish naturally pairs well with a variety of beverages, enhancing your dining experience. It’s a delightful way to wind down and enjoy a lovely evening.
Main Ingredients for Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo

When it comes to crafting Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo, the ingredients are as important as the technique. Each one contributes to the overall harmony of the dish. The combination of fresh herbs, savory vegetables, and succulent shrimp creates a mouthwatering experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 ounces linguini, spaghetti or pasta of choice, wheat or gluten-free
- Kosher salt and fresh pepper to taste
- 3 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6-7 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 35 ounces crushed tomatoes, I LOVE Tuttorosso
- 1 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained
- 8 fresh basil leaves, rolled and sliced thin
Putting Together Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo

Creating Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a delightful experience that invites you into the kitchen. As you begin, the enticing aromas will fill your home, making it hard to resist. Follow these steps carefully, and soon enough, you’ll have a dish that impresses everyone.
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. It’s essential to make sure your water is seasoned well; this will enhance the flavor of your pasta.
- While waiting for the water to heat up, heat 2 teaspoons of the olive oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Watch the oil shimmer slightly, indicating it’s ready for the garlic.
- Stir in the garlic and cook until golden, approximately one minute. This step is crucial to develop that lovely golden-brown flavor.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they just start to brown but are not fully cooked. Season with a sprinkle of salt to taste. You’ll notice their color turning from gray to a beautiful pink.
- Once the shrimp are browned, transfer them to a plate, leaving the garlic in the pan. This will help infuse the next ingredients with that wonderful garlic essence.
- Pour the remaining teaspoon of olive oil into the skillet and add the celery and onion. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything softens and becomes aromatic.
- Now it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and crushed red pepper, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. You want it to thicken slightly while the flavors meld beautifully.
- Meanwhile, as your sauce simmers, toss the linguini into the boiling water and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand.
- Once the sauce is ready, gently add the shrimp back into the skillet and cook for another minute or two. Remove from heat and add the capers for a burst of flavor.
- Serve the Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo in a large bowl, topped with freshly sliced basil and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Optionally, you can serve it with Parmesan cheese on the side for those who desire a cheesy finish.
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Shrimp: When cooking the shrimp, be careful not to overcook them as they can become rubbery. Aim for just the right amount of pink.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, especially the herbs and vegetables, will elevate the flavor of your dish significantly.
- Simmering Time: Allow the sauce to simmer adequately to develop richer flavors. Don’t rush this step.
- Al Dente Pasta: Cooking the pasta until it’s al dente ensures it maintains a firm texture and can hold onto the sauce better.
Tips for Success

To ensure your Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips. Each point will guide you to a successful cooking experience.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for optimal texture when reheating.
- Pairing: Consider pairing this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Garnish: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only add flavor but also enhance the presentation of your dish.
- Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality olive oil and fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Texture Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to add texture and nutrition.
What to Pair With Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo
When serving Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo, consider these pairing options for a well-rounded meal:
- Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread can be the perfect accompaniment, allowing you to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Salad: A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Wine Options: Although I won’t specify any, sparkling water or lemon-infused drinks can elevate your meal.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables can add a healthy touch and complement the pasta nicely.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for summer cookouts, casual dinners, or even festive gatherings. It’s sure to impress your guests.
- Storing Leftovers: Make sure to store any leftovers promptly in the fridge and consume within two days for the best quality.
FAQ
Conclusion
Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a summer favorite that combines fresh ingredients with an incredible, spicy flair. The beautiful balance of flavors and textures makes this dish an instant hit. I encourage you to try it out for your next dinner gathering or just for a cozy night in. You won’t regret bringing this delightful Italian classic into your home!

Linguini and Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Equipment
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Peeler
- Large Pot
- Saucepan
- Chef's Knife
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 12 ounces linguini spaghetti or pasta of choice, wheat or gluten-free
- Kosher salt to taste
- fresh pepper to taste
- 3 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined
- 6-7 cloves garlic peeled and smashed
- 1/4 cup celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 35 ounces crushed tomatoes I LOVE Tuttorosso
- 1 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper or to taste
- 1 tablespoon capers drained
- 8 fresh basil leaves rolled and sliced thin
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- While the water is heating up, heat 2 teaspoons of the olive oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in the garlic and cook until golden, about one minute.
- Add the shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes to brown but not cook through; sprinkle with salt to taste.
- Transfer the shrimp to a plate, leaving garlic in the pan.
- Pour the remaining teaspoon of olive oil and add the celery and onions; cook 2 minutes then add the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and crushed red pepper and bring to a simmer.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer about 8-10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, add pasta to water and cook according to package directions for al dente.
- Once the sauce is ready, add the shrimp and cook another minute or two; remove from heat and add the capers.
- Serve in a large bowl over pasta topped with fresh basil and fresh black pepper. Optional, Parmesan cheese on the side.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- Tip 2: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for optimal texture when reheating.
- Tip 3: Consider pairing this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Tip 4: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only add flavor but also enhance the presentation of your dish.
- Tip 5: Use high-quality olive oil and fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.


