As I whisked up a batch of romesco sauce, the aroma of roasted red peppers and toasted nuts whisked me away to a sun-soaked Spanish coastal kitchen. The result? A comforting, yet vibrant dish of Pasta Romesco with Shrimp that quickly became my go-to weeknight meal. In under 40 minutes, you can transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience, thanks to the smoky, nutty flavors of the sauce and tender shrimp mingling with twirls of pasta. This recipe not only invites customization—swap in your favorite seafood or throw in some seasonal veggies—but also presents a healthier alternative to takeout. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this delightful dish?
Why is Pasta Romesco with Shrimp a Hit?
Quick and Easy: This dish takes under 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutty, Smoky Flavor: The romesco sauce, with its roasted red peppers and toasted nuts, infuses every bite with a delightful warmth and richness.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap shrimp for seared scallops or even add seasonal veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish will impress with its vibrant colors and robust taste.
Healthier Alternative: Ditch the takeout! This Pasta Romesco is a delicious option that’s low in lactose and packed with wholesome ingredients.
If you love seafood pasta, you may also enjoy our Garlic Butter Shrimp for another delightful meal!
Pasta Romesco with Shrimp Ingredients
• Get ready for a tasty ride!
For the Pasta
- Pasta – Choose any shape you love; gluten-free options work beautifully too!
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – Juicy and tender, but feel free to substitute with scallops or firm white fish for variety.
For the Romesco Sauce
- Roasted Red Peppers – Adds a smoky sweetness essential to romesco; jarred options add convenience.
- Toasted Nuts (Almonds) – Provides a delightful nuttiness and texture; walnuts offer a different flavor twist if preferred.
- Garlic – Infuses the sauce with zesty notes; fresh is best!
- Olive Oil – Blends the sauce smoothly and enhances richness; choose high-quality extra virgin for best results.
- Sherry Vinegar – Lifts the flavors and adds brightness; substitute with red wine vinegar if necessary.
- Tomato Paste – Deepens the sauce’s flavor; a small roasted tomato can add a fresh touch instead.
- Smoked Paprika – Contributes warmth and depth; try sweet paprika mixed with cumin as an alternative.
- Country Bread or Breadcrumbs – Thickens the sauce delightfully; regular breadcrumbs can lighten it up.
- Lemon Zest – Brightens the dish; adjust based on your zest for citrus!
These ingredients come together to create a delightful Pasta Romesco with Shrimp, perfect for quickly elevating your weeknight dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pasta Romesco with Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Romesco Sauce
In a food processor, combine roasted red peppers, toasted almonds, garlic, olive oil, sherry vinegar, tomato paste, and smoked paprika. Blend the mixture until it reaches a textured consistency, reminiscent of a thick sauce. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated. Set the romesco sauce aside while you prepare the pasta.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining it in a colander. This starchy water will help you achieve the perfect saucy consistency when mixing everything together.
Step 3: Sear Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink, opaque, and slightly caramelized. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; work in batches if necessary. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside, keeping them warm.
Step 4: Combine
In the same skillet used for the shrimp, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the prepared romesco sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency, about 2-4 tablespoons. The Pasta Romesco with Shrimp should be creamy and luscious.
Step 5: Serve
Twirl the pasta onto serving plates, nestling the juicy shrimp on top for a beautiful presentation. Garnish generously with freshly grated lemon zest, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of additional toasted nuts for texture. Serve immediately to enjoy the full flavors of the dish while everything is warm and inviting, ready to impress your loved ones.
What to Serve with Pasta Romesco with Shrimp?
Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that complement the smoky, nutty essence of this flavorful dish.
- Crisp Green Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the romesco sauce, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of romesco. The crispy crust pairs beautifully with the smooth sauce.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus adds an earthy note and vibrant color, making it an elegant touch to your dinner table.
- Lemon Wedge: A fresh lemon wedge serves as the perfect final touch, adding a bright squeeze that elevates every bite of the pasta dish.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the shrimp and enhances the dish’s smoky flavors, bringing the meal to a delightful finish.
- Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light strawberry or lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, leaving you refreshed after the rich pasta experience.
- Pesto Caprese Skewers: These vibrant, bite-sized appetizers of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with pesto offer a flavorful start to the meal.
Let these pairing ideas inspire a well-rounded meal that invites warmth and joy to your dining table!
How to Store and Freeze Pasta Romesco with Shrimp
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Fridge: Store any leftover Pasta Romesco with Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the romesco sauce in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
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Cooked Pasta: If you have leftover cooked pasta, store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s best to keep it separate from the sauce to maintain texture.
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Reheating: When reheating, do so in a skillet over low heat, adding a touch of water or olive oil as needed to bring back the sauce’s luscious consistency.
Make Ahead Options
These Pasta Romesco with Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the romesco sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. The sauce’s flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious. Cooked pasta and shrimp can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the pasta and shrimp with the prepared sauce over low heat for a quick and scrumptious meal. Enjoy the satisfying convenience of a homemade dinner that feels just as special as if you made it fresh!
Pasta Romesco with Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Customize your dish to make it uniquely yours, while enjoying a symphony of flavors!
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Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with seared scallops or chunks of firm white fish for a different taste experience. Both options maintain the dish’s essence while adding variation.
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Veggie Boost: Add seasonal vegetables like spinach, roasted zucchini, or blistered cherry tomatoes for a nutritious twist. This not only enhances the color but also increases the healthiness of your meal.
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Spice It Up: Adjust the heat level by including red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños according to your preference. This adds a nice kick and engages your palate more intensely.
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Nutty Alternatives: Substitute toasted almonds with walnuts or pine nuts for a different nutty dimension. Each nut brings its own character, enhancing the depth of the romesco sauce.
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Vegan Option: For a plant-based delight, substitute shrimp with chickpeas or tofu, and use cashews instead of nuts to maintain a creamy texture. This creates a flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and fulfilling.
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Gluten-Free Pasta: Use zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta varieties to keep the meal light without sacrificing flavor. Zucchini noodles add a nice crunch and absorb the sauce beautifully!
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Flavor Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to brighten up the dish. Toss them in right before serving for a fresh and fragrant finish.
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Crusty Side: Pair it with fresh crusty bread to scoop up the extra romesco sauce while enjoying your meal. This adds a lovely textural contrast and enhances the dining experience.
Explore these delightful variations, and for more seafood-inspired recipes, check out our Grilled Shrimp Bowl or treat yourself to a flavorful Shrimp Tempura Burger!
Expert Tips for Pasta Romesco with Shrimp
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Cook Shrimp Carefully: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should only be pink and opaque. This ensures they remain juicy and tender.
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Sauce Texture Matters: Blend the romesco sauce until it’s textured, not completely smooth. This nutty quality enhances the depth of your Pasta Romesco with Shrimp.
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Adjust the Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water gradually. This will help achieve the perfect creamy texture without losing flavor.
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Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to customize by adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to enrich your sauce and nutrition.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the romesco sauce a few days in advance; it will taste even better as the flavors meld. Just keep it in a sealed container with a layer of olive oil on top.
Pasta Romesco with Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any shape you love, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta works beautifully too, making this dish suitable for various dietary needs. Just ensure to follow the cooking time indicated on the package for perfect al dente pasta.
How should I store leftover Pasta Romesco with Shrimp?
For fridge storage, keep any leftover pasta in an airtight container and enjoy it within 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water over low heat to restore its creamy texture. If you’re planning on saving it longer, consider freezing the romesco sauce separately.
Can I freeze the romesco sauce?
Yes! You can freeze the romesco sauce in a sealed container for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the sauce to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
How do I know if my shrimp is cooked properly?
Very! Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and chewy. If you find the shrimp firm but still tender, that’s the sweet spot for the best texture!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This dish is low in lactose, which is great for those with lactose intolerance. However, if making adjustments for allergies, ensure that the nuts in the romesco sauce are suitable for you or your guests. You can substitute toasted almonds with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Can I add vegetables to the Pasta Romesco with Shrimp?
Very much so! Adding seasonal veggies like spinach, blistered cherry tomatoes, or roasted zucchini can enhance both nutrition and flavor. I often throw in some baby spinach right at the end, allowing it to wilt slightly, adding a lovely pop of color and greenery to the dish.
Pasta Romesco with Shrimp: A Smoky Twist You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Romesco Sauce: In a food processor, combine roasted red peppers, toasted almonds, garlic, olive oil, sherry vinegar, tomato paste, and smoked paprika. Blend until textured, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add pasta, and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Sear Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp until pink and opaque (2-3 minutes per side). Remove and keep warm.
- Combine: In the skillet, reduce heat, add romesco sauce, drained pasta, and toss. Gradually add reserved pasta water until creamy.
- Serve: Twirl pasta onto plates, nestling shrimp on top. Garnish with lemon zest, parsley, and additional nuts.
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