This Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine is a zesty dish that packs a punch! With juicy shrimp and tender pasta drenched in a spicy tomato sauce, it’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
When I make this, I can’t resist slurping up the linguine, pretending I’m in a fancy restaurant! 🍝 Add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top, and it’s a meal that feels like a treat any night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine: This long, flat pasta works wonderfully for this dish. If you can’t find linguine, spaghetti or fettuccine can be good substitutes. They will hold the sauce well too!
Shrimp: Large shrimp make this dish feel more luxurious. If you’re on a budget, medium shrimp or even frozen shrimp are fine; just make sure they’re thawed. You can also swap them for scallops or chicken for variety.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add the heat! You can choose a mild alternative if you’re not a fan of spice, like paprika or omit them entirely. For more heat, add fresh chopped chili peppers instead.
White Wine: It adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, vegetable or chicken broth can work. I’ve gone without wine before, and it still tastes delicious!
Herbs: Fresh herbs are always a great choice. If you can, go for fresh basil and parsley instead of dried. But dried versions work, especially if they’re all you have on hand!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Shrimp Texture?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky as they can go from tender to rubbery very quickly. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Cook shrimp until they turn pink and curl slightly, about 2 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them!
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; give each shrimp space to cook evenly.
- Remove them from the heat as soon as they’re done to prevent overcooking.
Following these simple steps will ensure your shrimp come out perfectly tender and flavorful every time. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dish that you can whip up on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Linguine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente (this usually takes about 9-11 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you make the sauce.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce Base:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant.
4. Add Liquid and Seasoning:
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the skillet now and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce it by half. Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes along with red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, and a bit of salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine Shrimp & Sauce:
Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat everything through and let the flavors meld together.
6. Toss with Linguine:
Add the cooked linguine directly to the skillet and gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley if desired. Enjoy every delicious bite!
This dish is not only flavorful but also quick to prepare, making it the perfect recipe for a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy your cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
How Spicy Is This Dish?
The spice level can be adjusted to your liking! Start with 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a mild kick, or go up to 2 teaspoons for more heat. You can also add fresh chili peppers if you prefer a different flavor and heat level.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. It will still provide a nice depth of flavor to your sauce. If you want to avoid alcohol completely, you can simply omit it and use extra crushed tomatoes instead.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat and add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Enjoy it again for another meal!
Let me know if you have any more questions!
