Go Back
+ servings
Pasta Romesco with Shrimp

Pasta Romesco with Shrimp: A Smoky Twist You’ll Love

Pasta Romesco with Shrimp combines smoky, nutty flavors for a delightful weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Choose any shape you love; gluten-free options work beautifully too!
For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Shrimp Juicy and tender, feel free to substitute with scallops or firm white fish.
For the Romesco Sauce
  • 2 cups Roasted Red Peppers Adds a smoky sweetness; jarred options add convenience.
  • 1 cup Toasted Nuts (Almonds) Provides nuttiness and texture; walnuts are an alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh is best!
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Choose high-quality extra virgin for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Sherry Vinegar Substitute with red wine vinegar if necessary.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Deepens flavor; a small roasted tomato can add freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Try sweet paprika mixed with cumin as an alternative.
  • 1 slice Country Bread or Breadcrumbs Thickens the sauce; regular breadcrumbs lighten it.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Brightens the dish; adjust based on your zest for citrus!

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  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 until textured, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Combine: In the skillet, reduce heat, add romesco sauce, drained pasta, and toss. Gradually add reserved pasta water until creamy.
  5. Serve: Twirl pasta onto plates, nestling shrimp on top. Garnish with lemon zest, parsley, and additional nuts.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Customize by adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition. Prepare the romesco sauce a few days in advance for enhanced flavors.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!