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Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone

Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone

Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mascarpone combines tender shrimp, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and rich mascarpone cheese to create a speedy, flavorful, and comforting pasta dish perfect for any busy weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Protein

  • 12 oz fresh or frozen peeled shrimp

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • Optional: baby spinach or arugula (1 cup)

Dairy

  • 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese

Pasta

  • 8 oz linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti

Oils and Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook your chosen pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later.
  2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove and set aside.
  3. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Toss in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook briefly to release their flavorful oils.
  4. Add Mascarpone and Seasonings: Lower the heat and stir mascarpone cheese into the skillet, adding reserved pasta water little by little to create a creamy sauce. Mix in lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
  5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss well until every strand is glistening with the luscious sauce.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Finish with chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and herbal brightness, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
  • Use high-quality mascarpone for best creamy texture.
  • Chop sun-dried tomatoes finely to evenly distribute flavor.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning, acidity, and spice before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Shrimp pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, mascarpone, creamy pasta, quick dinner, Italian pasta, easy shrimp recipe