Ingredients
1 large bag of raw, tail on, frozen shrimp (16-20 size, plan 8 per person)
2 cups of heavy cream
2 Tbs chopped garlic
1 Tbs Johnny’s garlic bread seasoning
1 tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste)
3 tbs grated parmesan
1 medium yellow onion diced
1 large red, yellow or green pepper
½ cup bacon bits or pancetta
3 cups of spinach or arugula (Rocket)
1 tsp Salt and 1tsp pepper
1 box of Rigatoni, fettucine, penne or whatever noodle you prefer
Directions:
Prepare the Shrimp by thawing per package directions or, alternately, boil in salted water with lemon slices for 6 min before placing in ice bath. Reserve to the side on a plate. Do not overcook as they will warm and cook slightly when added later to the sauce
Prepare your noodles according to package directions. For extra shrimp flavor you can use the same water you poached the shrimp in.
While your noodles are cooking, prepare your remainder of items in a large sauté pan.
Sauté onion and red pepper together on high heat with 1 tbs of olive oil for 3 mins. Add bacon bits (or pancetta) and spinach (or arugula) to the pan and sauté until greens are wilted. Add garlic, parmesan and spices. Sauté for 1 min and then add cream. Allow to come to a simmer, stirring constantly. Once simmering, drain and add your pasta and shrimp, stir to coat. Allow to come back to a simmer, serve immediately.
Options:
You can use any kind of pepper, or onion you prefer. In addition, you can replace the shrimp with any other protein such as chicken or pork. Just make sure your protein is cooked prior to adding at the end of the cooking process. You can also adjust the garlic and pepper flakes to taste. I would also recommend adding some blanched cauliflower or broccoli for additional veggies!
The Story:
I love pasta with cream sauce. Despite being part Sicilian I have a preference for it over tomato sauces. I also love shrimp and because they cook so quickly, this meal comes together in less than 30 mins. I can even prepare the shrimp and pasta ahead, refrigerate it and then put together dinner with little time or trouble.