Description
Savor the delightful fusion of flavors with this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta recipe. This dish combines tender shrimp in a creamy, spicy sauce served over perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles. It’s quick and easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, you’ll need:
- For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 10 ounces shrimp, deveined and peeled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish
- For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Begin by mixing all the sauce ingredients (mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha sauce) together in a bowl. Set the sauce aside.
2. Cook the Spaghetti Noodles:
Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the directions on the package until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Season the Shrimp:
While the noodles are cooking, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. During the last 30 seconds of cooking, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
5. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Turn off the heat and add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet with the shrimp.
6. Add the Sauce:
Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and noodles, tossing everything together until well coated.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Garnish for Extra Flavor:
Enhance the visual appeal and taste of your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta by garnishing it with additional fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. The added freshness and acidity will balance the creamy, spicy sauce. - Side Dish Pairings:
Complement your pasta with a light side salad, such as a crisp cucumber and tomato salad, or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These sides add a healthy, refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish. - Bread for Sopping Up Sauce:
Serve your pasta with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. This not only makes the meal more satisfying but also ensures you don’t waste any of the delicious sauce. - Beverage Pairings:
Pair your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or opt for a light, refreshing beer to balance the spicy and creamy elements of the dish.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain its creamy texture. - Freezing:
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta for longer storage. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The pasta can be frozen for up to 1 month. - Reheating from Frozen:
To reheat frozen pasta, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and adding a little water or broth to help restore its creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through. - Portion Control:
If you plan to store leftovers, consider dividing the pasta into individual portions before refrigerating or freezing. This makes reheating more convenient and helps manage portion sizes, especially for quick meals or packed lunches. - Avoid Overcooking Shrimp:
When reheating, be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked, so reheat the pasta just until it is warmed through.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta remains delicious and enjoyable, whether served fresh or as leftovers.
