Shrimp spaghetti in wine sauce

Shrimp Spaghetti in Red Wine Sauce – A Quick and Flavorful Delicacy

Who doesn't love a plate of shrimp spaghetti, soaked in subtle flavors and a splash of red wine? This recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also easy to make, perfect for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends. Get ready to impress with this refined yet simple dish.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Necessary Ingredients

- 200 g fresh shrimp – choose quality, fresh shrimp or, if unavailable, good quality frozen shrimp.
- 250 g Molisana spaghetti – high-quality spaghetti will bind better with the sauce.
- 1 glass of red wine – choose a wine you would drink; a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works excellently.
- 1 tomato – fresh, to add a touch of sweetness.
- Olive oil – 3-4 tablespoons, for marinating the shrimp.
- Herbs (e.g., basil, oregano) – fresh or dried, according to preference.
- Black pepper and peperoncino – to taste, for a hint of spiciness.
- Sage – a few fresh leaves, for added flavor.

Brief History

Shrimp spaghetti in red wine sauce is a perfect example of the blend between Mediterranean culinary tradition and fresh seafood ingredients. This dish has gained popularity due to its simplicity and versatility, easily adapting to local preferences. Shrimp, being a rich source of protein and omega-3, makes this dish a healthy and tasty choice.

Step by Step: Cooking Shrimp Spaghetti

Step 1: Marinating the Shrimp
In a bowl, add the cleaned shrimp and rinse them well under cold water. Then, pour olive oil and red wine over them. Add the herbs, peperoncino, pepper, and sage leaves. Mix well to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours. This marination will enhance the flavors and make the shrimp juicier.

Step 2: Preparing the Spaghetti
In a large pot, add water and salt, then bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. In the meantime, you can take care of the shrimp.

Step 3: Cooking the Shrimp
In a large skillet, add the shrimp marinade (shrimp with sauce) and cook over medium heat. After a few minutes, add the glass of red wine and the grated tomato. Let the sauce simmer until the wine reduces and thickens slightly, and the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Final Mixing
Once the spaghetti is ready, drain it and rinse it with warm water to remove the starch. Add the spaghetti to the shrimp sauce in the skillet and mix well. Let them combine for 2-3 minutes on low heat so that the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

Step 5: Serving
Serve the shrimp spaghetti on a large platter, sprinkled with grated Parmesan on top. A garnish of fresh herbs will add a touch of freshness. You can accompany this dish with a simple green salad and a chilled bottle of red wine.

Useful Tips

- Choose shrimp carefully. Opting for fresh shrimp, if available, will make a significant difference in taste.
- Do not overcook the shrimp. This will make them rubbery. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque.
- Gluten-free option. You can use rice flour spaghetti or other gluten-free types to adapt the recipe for those with intolerances.
- Add vegetables. For a healthier version, you can add zucchini or spinach to the shrimp sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, ensure to thaw them completely and dry them before marinating.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add more peperoncino or a splash of chili sauce.

3. What wine should I use?
Choose a red wine that you enjoy drinking, preferably one with a balanced taste.

Delicious Combinations

This dish pairs perfectly with a salad of arugula and Parmesan or with a fresh baguette to soak up the delicious sauce. Offer a white or rosé wine that will complement the flavors on the plate.

Nutritional Benefits

Shrimp are an excellent source of protein and are low in calories, making this dish a healthy choice. Additionally, red wine can provide antioxidants, and herbs add essential vitamins and minerals.

In conclusion, shrimp spaghetti in red wine sauce is not just a simple recipe but also an excellent way to impress without needing advanced cooking skills. Let yourself be carried away by flavors, enjoy every bite, and remember that cooking is, above all, about pleasure and creativity!