Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta: The Ultimate Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Introduction to Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Are you ready to embark on a flavor-packed culinary adventure? Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the zest of shrimp with the creaminess of a special sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion, and it’s especially great for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
A Personal Story Behind My Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for meals that were not only delicious but also filled with laughter and stories. One of my fondest memories is when my grandmother introduced us to shrimp dishes. Her love for seafood was infectious, and she always had a way of making the simplest recipes feel special. Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta became a family favorite over the years, celebrated for its unique flavors and the joy it brought to our meals. I love sharing this recipe with friends and family, knowing it carries a bit of history and a lot of love.
What Makes This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of juicy shrimp, a creamy yet tangy sauce, and al dente pasta creates a delightful dish that is both satisfying and comforting. The use of Thai sweet chili sauce adds a hint of sweetness and spice, making it a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for anyone, even those who may not be experienced in the kitchen.
The Full Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- ¾ – 1 lb thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta or gluten-free pasta
- 1 ½ lbs medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 teaspoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise or light mayonnaise
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, mix together all the sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, minced garlic, lime juice, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set aside. You can warm this up if desired, but it will warm nicely when mixed with the hot pasta.
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside. Remember, cooking the pasta al dente will ensure it holds up better when mixed with the sauce.
- Season the shrimp: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the uncooked shrimp with paprika, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure to coat the shrimp evenly for the best flavor.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the coated shrimp and cook, stirring constantly, until they turn pink, about 6-8 minutes (depending on shrimp size). Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough.
- Combine: If the pasta is not ready yet, remove the shrimp from heat and set aside. In a large serving bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce mixture until everything is well coated.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish your dish with dried parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately. For an extra kick, sprinkle some additional crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
This dish is perfect on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Add a side salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta.
- Include vegetables: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
- Make it a bake: After mixing everything, you can transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake for a bubbly delight.
- Substitute proteins: Feel free to swap shrimp with chicken or tofu if you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level can be adjusted by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 4
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot For cooking pasta.
- Frying Pan For cooking shrimp.
- Mixing bowl For preparing sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.75 lb thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta or gluten-free pasta
- 1.5 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 to taste freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together all the sauce ingredients and set aside. You can warm this up if desired, but it will warm nicely when mixed with the hot pasta.
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling water according to package instructions. Drain well.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the uncooked shrimp with paprika, 3 cloves of garlic, and black pepper.
- Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the coated uncooked shrimp and cook, stirring constantly, until pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove the shrimp from heat and set aside if the pasta is not ready.
- In a large serving bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce mixture.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.