Black pasta with shrimp

Black Pasta with Shrimp - An Elegant and Flavorful Dinner

Imagine a relaxing evening, surrounded by friends, where a delicious meal becomes the centerpiece of your gathering. This black pasta recipe with shrimp not only looks spectacular, but it also has an exceptional taste, making it perfect for impressing your guests. With a blend of subtle flavors and textures, this dish is a true delicacy. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 pack of black spaghetti (with cuttlefish ink)
- 800 g frozen shrimp (medium size)
- 1 clove of garlic
- 200 g heavy cream
- 1/2 glass of white wine
- Fresh basil (a few leaves)
- Grated Parmigiano (to taste)
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper
- A little chili (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika paste (optional, homemade)

The history of this recipe:
Black pasta, colored by cuttlefish ink, is a symbol of Mediterranean cuisine, adding a touch of sophistication to every meal. This recipe combines the soft texture of shrimp with the distinctive aroma of garlic and white wine, creating a symphony of flavors that will remind you of evenings spent by the sea.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by taking the shrimp out of the freezer and letting them sit at room temperature. They should have a gray hue, indicating they are fresh. If you prefer, you can peel the shrimp only halfway, leaving the head and tail for a more rustic look. This detail not only enhances the presentation but also the texture of the dish.

2. Boiling the pasta:
In a large pot, add water, a splash of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the black spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes. Make sure the pasta is 'al dente', meaning it should be cooked but still have a slight firmness when bitten.

3. Preparing the sauce:
In a large skillet, add a generous amount of olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat and add the crushed garlic clove. Sauté for a few seconds until it starts to turn golden, being careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter.

4. Adding the shrimp:
Once the garlic has released its aroma, add the shrimp to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. This is when the shrimp release their juices, infusing the oil with a unique flavor.

5. Deglazing with wine:
Pour the white wine into the skillet, stirring well to lift all the flavors from the bottom of the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of chili if you want a touch of spice. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes.

6. Finishing the sauce:
After the wine has reduced, add the heavy cream and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it becomes creamy. Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, turn off the heat.

7. Combining the pasta with the sauce:
When the pasta is ready, drain it well and add it to the skillet, gently tossing to coat it evenly with the creamy shrimp sauce. If necessary, add a splash of olive oil for extra shine.

8. Serving:
Transfer the pasta to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil leaves and grated Parmigiano. This final touch will add an intense flavor and fresh aroma to the dish.

Serving suggestions:
This black pasta with shrimp can be served alongside a light green salad with cherry tomatoes and lemon dressing to balance the richness of the sauce. Additionally, a glass of fresh white wine will perfectly complement this meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp will add an even more intense flavor to the dish.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with vegetables like zucchini or spinach, which pair well with the sauce.

3. How can I make the recipe easier?
You can use pre-cooked pasta or ready-made sauces to reduce cooking time.

Nutritional benefits:
This pasta is a rich source of protein due to the shrimp and contains healthy fats from the olive oil. The cream adds calcium, while basil provides antioxidants, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

Vegetarian option:
For a vegetarian version, replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, which offer a pleasant texture and absorb the flavor of the sauce.

Try this black pasta with shrimp recipe and turn an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Enjoy your meal!