Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo: A Flavorful Journey of Taste

If you’re seeking a meal that combines freshness and richness, then Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo will exceed your expectations. This delightful dish blends succulent shrimp, creamy pasta, and a zesty Pico de Gallo, bringing together a range of textures and flavors. Whether you’re preparing a family meal, hosting a special dinner, or treating yourself, this dish is bound to impress. In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know to create this amazing recipe step-by-step.

Ingredients for Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo

Before diving into the preparation, it’s important to have the right ingredients. The combination of shrimp, pasta, and Pico de Gallo creates a perfect balance of rich and fresh flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta:

Dreamfields® Penne Rigate – 8 ounces (or any pasta of your choice)
Salt – for seasoning the water to enhance flavor
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (to prevent the pasta from sticking)

For the Shrimp:

Shrimp – 1 pound, peeled and deveined, fresh and juicy
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Lime juice – 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Chili flakes – 1 teaspoon (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper – to taste

For the Pico de Gallo:

Tomatoes – 2 large, diced
Red onion – 1 small, finely chopped
Cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped fresh
Jalapeño – 1 small, minced (optional for extra spice)
Lime juice – 2 tablespoons
Salt – to taste

For the Sauce:

Heavy cream – 1 cup, for a rich and creamy texture
Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
Butter – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 1 clove, minced
Salt and pepper – to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s jump into the cooking process. Follow the step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Pico de Gallo

To begin, let’s create the Pico de Gallo. This fresh topping will bring brightness and crunch to your dish. Additionally, it gives the flavors time to meld while the pasta and shrimp are being prepared.

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, cilantro, and minced jalapeño (if using for extra spice).
Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture and season with salt to taste.
Stir everything together, then set aside for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to come together and deepen.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the Pico de Gallo is resting, let’s focus on the pasta. This crucial step will ensure your pasta is cooked perfectly to complement the shrimp and sauce.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the Dreamfields Penne Rigate (or any other pasta you prefer) to the boiling water and cook for 9-11 minutes until al dente.
Once cooked, drain the pasta, and toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set it aside for now.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, let’s turn our attention to the shrimp. They’ll only take a few minutes to cook, so be sure to keep an eye on them!

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the shrimp, followed by the lime juice, chili flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Stir occasionally to ensure the shrimp cook evenly.
Cook the shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re cooked through, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, you’ll create the creamy sauce that brings all the flavors together. This sauce will be rich and velvety, complementing both the shrimp and pasta.

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
Add 1 clove of minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, allowing it to infuse the butter with flavor.
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. The result should be a smooth, creamy sauce that will coat the pasta perfectly.

Step 5: Assemble the Shrimp and Pasta Recipe with Pico de Gallo

Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to bring everything together. This final step ties everything into a single, glorious dish.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss gently to coat it evenly with the sauce.
Fold in the cooked shrimp, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
Plate the dish, then top generously with the freshly prepared Pico de Gallo.
Garnish with extra cilantro or Parmesan cheese, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes and Additional Tips for Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo

Here are some additional tips to elevate your Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo:

Pasta Variations: While Dreamfields Penne Rigate works wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to use other pasta types like spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. The dish will still be delicious!
Add More Spice: If you enjoy a spicier flavor, you can add extra chili flakes to the shrimp or increase the amount of jalapeño in the Pico de Gallo.
Protein Substitutes: Not a fan of shrimp? You can substitute it with grilled chicken, scallops, or tofu for a plant-based version.
Lighten the Dish: If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. This will provide a creamy texture while cutting down on calories.
Make Ahead: The Pico de Gallo can be made a day ahead. In fact, the flavors will deepen and become even more vibrant when it sits overnight.

Nutrition Facts for Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving for Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo:

Calories: 450-500
Protein: 30-35g
Fat: 18-20g
Carbohydrates: 45-50g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 550mg

This dish provides a healthy balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it both filling and nutritious.

FAQ About Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo

1. What ingredients do I need for shrimp and pasta recipes with Pico de Gallo?
You’ll need shrimp, pasta, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, garlic, and lime juice. For the sauce, you’ll need heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter.

2. How do I make the perfect Pico de Gallo for shrimp and pasta recipes?
Simply combine diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt, then allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Can I substitute ingredients in shrimp and pasta recipes with Pico de Gallo?
Yes! You can replace the shrimp with chicken, scallops, or tofu. Additionally, you can use different types of pasta or substitute coconut milk for heavy cream to make the dish lighter or dairy-free.

4. What type of shrimp works best for shrimp and pasta recipes with Pico de Gallo?
Fresh shrimp works best, but frozen shrimp can also be used if properly thawed before cooking. Larger shrimp generally work better for this recipe.

5. How do I achieve the perfect creamy sauce for shrimp and pasta recipes with Pico de Gallo?
Simmer heavy cream with garlic and stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste for a velvety, creamy texture.

Conclusion: The Best Shrimp and Pasta Recipe with Pico de Gallo

In conclusion, Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo offer a delightful blend of fresh, creamy, and zesty flavors. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also offers a unique combination of ingredients that make each bite a joy. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a weeknight meal, this recipe will not disappoint.

By following these easy steps, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Additionally, you can customize it with various substitutions to suit your preferences. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

Ingredients List for Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo:

Dreamfields Penne Rigate
Shrimp, garlic, lime juice
Tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño
Heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter

Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo:

Prepare the Pico de Gallo.
Cook the pasta.
Cook the shrimp.
Make the creamy sauce.
Assemble the dish.

Notes and Additional Tips for Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo:

Pasta variations.
Add more spice.
Substitute ingredients.
Lighten the dish.
Make ahead.

Nutrition Facts for Shrimp and Pasta Recipes with Pico de Gallo:

Calories: 450-500
Protein: 30-35g
Fat: 18-20g
Carbs: 45-50g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 550mg