Herbed Shrimp Capellini
Highlighted under: Kitchen World | Global Eats
I absolutely love making Herbed Shrimp Capellini, especially during the warmer months. The dish combines tender shrimp with delicate capellini pasta, all tossed in a fresh herb-infused sauce that brings everything to life. It’s a quick yet impressive meal, perfect for when friends unexpectedly drop by. The combination of garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon elevates the shrimp's natural sweetness, making it a delightful and light dish. Plus, it comes together in just a short amount of time, which is a bonus for busy weeknights!
Every time I prepare Herbed Shrimp Capellini, it reminds me of summer evenings spent on the patio with close friends. The delicate capellini pasta paired with succulent shrimp is always a hit, and I love how fresh herbs can elevate a simple dish into something extraordinary. I usually make a little extra sauce just so I can enjoy the flavors even more!
What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors; I’ve found that using a good-quality olive oil and fresh herbs truly makes all the difference. On particularly busy nights, I even opt for pre-cooked shrimp to save time without sacrificing taste. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and fresh flavors that sing of summer
- Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy evenings
- A stunning dish that impresses at any gathering
Understanding the Key Ingredients
The combination of fresh herbs in Herbed Shrimp Capellini not only introduces vibrant flavors but also adds a lovely aroma that enhances the overall dining experience. Fresh basil and parsley are essential here; they complement the shrimp beautifully, bringing a summery freshness to the dish. For an herb twist, consider substituting cilantro or dill in place of basil, though they will change the flavor profile slightly. It's also important to use high-quality olive oil, as it acts as a base for the sauce, enriching the dish with its fruity notes.
When selecting shrimp, opt for large, firm prawns for the best texture and flavor. Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean and have a slight springiness to them. If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking to prevent uneven doneness. Be cautious not to overcook your shrimp; they should be cooked until they are just pink and opaque, which usually takes just a few minutes. Keeping an eye on them as they cook will prevent that rubbery texture that can occur if they're left too long.
Perfecting Your Cooking Technique
Cooking the capellini pasta is straightforward, but it's important to master timing, as this pasta type cooks much faster than other varieties. Begin cooking the pasta only when your shrimp is ready to be sautéed, as it ensures both components are hot when combined. Remember to reserve that half cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid can be a game changer. If the final dish seems dry, add a splash of pasta water to achieve that glossy, saucy consistency.
Sautéing shrimp requires a hot pan, so heat your skillet over medium-high to get a good sear without steaming the shrimp. If you're cooking for a larger crowd, do it in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can cause the shrimp to release moisture and steam instead of sautéing. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing can not only offer a slight kick but also elevate the flavor profile of the dish wonderfully.
Ingredients
Gather all your fresh ingredients to make preparation seamless.
Ingredients for Herbed Shrimp Capellini
- 8 oz capellini pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ensure everything is well-prepared before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Instructions
Start by boiling the pasta; multitasking will make dinner faster!
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the capellini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with shrimp. Pour in reserved pasta water, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and basil. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve immediately.
Enjoy your Herbed Shrimp Capellini with a side salad or a glass of white wine!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese when serving.
Serving Suggestions
Herbed Shrimp Capellini pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables, offering a refreshing contrast to the dish's richness. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can complement the flavors beautifully. For an added crunch, consider toasting some pine nuts to sprinkle on top before serving. This adds not just texture but also depth to the dish.
For an unforgettable presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls topped with extra herbs. A thin slice of lemon on the side enhances the visual appeal and invites your guests to add more acidity as per their taste. This dish is also perfect for enjoying al fresco dining; the vibrant colors are sure to attract attention and invite compliments.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
While Herbed Shrimp Capellini is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components in advance. You can pre-mince the garlic and chop the herbs, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. If you're planning to serve this dish at a gathering, consider cooking the pasta earlier in the day and reheating it quickly in hot water to prevent overcooking just before serving.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little olive oil or broth to prevent sticking. This reheating method helps keep the shrimp tender and the flavors intact, ensuring a speedy yet delicious meal the next day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
→ What herbs can I substitute?
You can use any combination of fresh herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon for different flavor profiles.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator; just heat it up before adding the shrimp and pasta.
→ What sides pair well with Herbed Shrimp Capellini?
A light arugula salad with lemon dressing or grilled vegetables complements the dish beautifully.
Herbed Shrimp Capellini
I absolutely love making Herbed Shrimp Capellini, especially during the warmer months. The dish combines tender shrimp with delicate capellini pasta, all tossed in a fresh herb-infused sauce that brings everything to life. It’s a quick yet impressive meal, perfect for when friends unexpectedly drop by. The combination of garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon elevates the shrimp's natural sweetness, making it a delightful and light dish. Plus, it comes together in just a short amount of time, which is a bonus for busy weeknights!
Created by: Monicas
Recipe Type: Kitchen World | Global Eats
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Herbed Shrimp Capellini
- 8 oz capellini pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the capellini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with shrimp. Pour in reserved pasta water, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and basil. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese when serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 22g