Name: Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Squid ink pasta; 4 cloves Garlic; 9 oz Peeled and deveined shrimp; 1 tablespoon Olive oil; ⅓ cup Butter; ½ teaspoon Dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon Chili flakes (optional); 1 cup Arugula or baby spinach; Parmesan (optional for garnish)

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When I think of cozy evenings spent at home, nothing quite beats the allure of Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp. As the sun sets and a chill creeps in, I find myself craving this dish, with its rich, dark pasta and succulent shrimp, all mingled in a buttery garlic sauce. It’s a dish that not only warms the belly but also brings a certain elegance to the table. You can almost hear the gentle bubbling of the sauce as it simmers, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. I remember the first time I made this; it was a spontaneous decision to impress a dear friend. Little did I know, it would become a staple in my culinary repertoire. With each bite, the flavors dance, creating a delightful symphony that simply begs for a glass of sparkling water alongside. The contrast of the savory shrimp against the unique squid ink pasta makes for a memorable meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Peeler, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

What’s Great About This Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp

1. Unique Flavors

The first thing that draws me to Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp is its unique flavor profile. The squid ink pasta brings a briny, ocean-like essence that pairs beautifully with the sweet, tender shrimp. It’s a combination that feels both luxurious and comforting, making it perfect for any occasion.

2. Quick and Easy

Don’t be fooled by its sophistication; this dish is surprisingly quick and easy to prepare! You can have a gourmet meal on the table in just a short time, which is ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Just boil the pasta, sauté the shrimp, and combine everything in one pan.

3. Impress Your Guests

Serving Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp is a surefire way to impress your friends and family. The striking appearance of the black pasta against the vibrant shrimp creates a stunning visual. It’s a conversation starter, and everyone will be asking for seconds!

4. Versatile Dish

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can swap out the shrimp for another seafood option, or even add vegetables for a personal touch. It adapts well to your pantry staples, making it a go-to dish when you need to clean out your fridge.

5. Comfort Food

At its core, Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp is a comfort food. The buttery sauce and tender pasta create a sense of warmth that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of dish that brings families together, perfect for sharing a meal after a long day.

Essential Ingredients for Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp

The ingredients for Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp are simple yet packed with flavor. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture. The key players include the unique squid ink pasta, which adds a lovely color and briny flavor, and the shrimp, which brings sweetness and protein. Together, these ingredients create a delightful dish that is as satisfying as it is beautiful.

8 oz squid ink pasta: This unique pasta not only adds a dramatic look to your dish but also infuses it with a subtle oceanic flavor, making it the perfect base for shrimp.
4 cloves garlic: Freshly sliced garlic adds an aromatic depth and savory punch to the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
9 oz peeled and deveined shrimp: Sweet and succulent, shrimp are the star of this dish, providing a protein boost and delightful texture.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, olive oil adds richness while allowing the other flavors to shine.
⅓ cup butter: Cut into cubes, butter enriches the sauce, creating a luxurious finish that beautifully coats the pasta.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: This herb adds a hint of earthiness, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
¼ teaspoon chili flakes: Optional but recommended, chili flakes provide a gentle heat that contrasts with the sweetness of the shrimp.
1 cup arugula or baby spinach: Adding greens not only brings a lovely color but also a fresh, peppery note that balances the richness of the pasta.
Parmesan: Optional for garnishing, a sprinkle of parmesan gives a nutty finish to the dish.

Making Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp

Creating Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp in your kitchen is a delightful experience that takes just a few steps. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to making this beautiful dish. Trust me, you’ll savor every moment of preparation!

Start by peeling the garlic. Slice it paper-thin and set it aside. This technique ensures that the garlic cooks evenly without burning, which can happen if you mince it too finely.
Next, place a large pan filled with water on the heat. Once it begins to boil, add a generous amount of salt. This step is crucial as it flavors the squid ink pasta during cooking. When the water is bubbling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining!
In a separate large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp. Sauté for about one minute on each side until they’re pink and opaque.
Now it’s time to add the star ingredients. Toss in the butter cubes along with the sliced garlic, oregano, and optional chili flakes. The butter should melt almost instantly and coat the shrimp and garlic beautifully.
Pour in about ¼ cup of the reserved pasta cooking water. Let the sauce bubble gently for around two minutes. This helps to meld all of the flavors together, so don’t rush this step! Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Next, add in the arugula or baby spinach. The greens will wilt quickly, adding a fresh element to the dish.
Once the pasta has been drained, mix it into the buttery sauce. Toss everything together gently, allowing the sauce to envelop the pasta. If it seems too dry, you can add a splash more of the reserved cooking water.
Serve immediately for the best texture. If desired, garnish with freshly grated parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors can continue to develop if you let it sit a few moments before serving.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking pasta: Remember to always salt your pasta water. It’s the only chance you get to season the pasta itself.
Shrimp doneness: Cook the shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture.
Butter sauce: Keep the heat low once you add the butter; you want it to melt gently, not brown.
Pasta water: The starchy reserved pasta water is a fantastic addition to sauces, helping them cling to the pasta.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Enhancing your cooking experience is key, and these tips will help you elevate your Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp to the next level.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth.
Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variations: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist.
Seafood alternatives: Swap shrimp for scallops or even lobster for a touch of luxury.
Serving suggestion: Pair with a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the richness of the pasta.

What Goes Well With This Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp

Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness.
Garlic bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or even a casual gathering with friends.
Wine pairing: Consider serving with sparkling water or sparkling juice for a refreshing contrast.
Seasonal pairing: In warmer months, add fresh herbs like basil for a burst of flavor.

FAQ

Squid ink pasta is a unique type of pasta made with squid ink, which gives it a distinctive black color and a mild, briny flavor. It’s made in much the same way as traditional pasta but has that special addition to make it stand out. It’s not just for aesthetics; the flavor pairs wonderfully with seafood and adds depth to dishes like Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp. You can find squid ink pasta in specialty grocery stores or order it online.

Absolutely! While Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp is traditionally made with squid ink pasta, you can substitute it with any long pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine. Keep in mind that the dish will lose its signature look, but the delicious flavors will still shine through. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Cooking shrimp is relatively straightforward. You’ll know they are done when they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about two minutes on each side, depending on their size. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep a close eye on them. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to check; it should be white and opaque.

While Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some elements ahead of time. For instance, you can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce separately, then combine them just before serving. However, keep in mind that the texture of the shrimp and the pasta may change upon reheating.

Conclusion

What makes Spaghetti Nero with Garlic Shrimp truly special is its beautiful combination of flavors and textures that create a memorable dining experience. It’s a meal that encourages sharing and conversation, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. I invite you to try this simple yet elegant dish; it might just become your new favorite pasta recipe!