This spicy seafood pasta is a lively dish full of shrimp, mussels, and clams, all swimming in a rich tomato butter sauce that makes it extra special. It’s the perfect mix of flavors!
Every bite is a tasty adventure – you might just want to slurp your noodles. 😋 I love serving this with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine both work wonderfully for this dish. If you want a gluten-free option, try spiralized zucchini or gluten-free pasta instead. I often use whole wheat pasta for added nutrition.
Seafood: A mix of shrimp, mussels, and clams gives a lovely variety. You can also use scallops or calamari. Frozen seafood can be a great substitute if fresh isn’t available; just ensure it’s properly thawed before cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is typically used for better control of saltiness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can replace it with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a similar richness.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient, but fresh tomatoes blended into a puree work just as well if they’re in season. If you’re in a pinch, you can use tomato sauce, but the flavor may be less intense.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Seafood in This Dish?
Cooking seafood can be tricky, but here’s how to do it just right and keep it tender:
- Start with a hot skillet and add your seafood gently to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Cover the pan to help steam the mussels and clams. They’ll open up when cooked, which is your signal they’re ready.
- Cook on medium heat until shrimp are pink and opaque, usually 5-7 minutes. Remove immediately after cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Always discard any shells that haven’t opened, as they’re likely not safe to eat.
This method ensures your seafood stays juicy and full of flavor! Happy cooking!
Spicy Seafood Pasta in Rich Tomato Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup seafood broth or water
- 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp peeled and deveined, mussels cleaned, clams cleaned)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious spicy seafood pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With a bit of chopping, stirring, and simmering, you’ll have a fantastic meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and the finely chopped onion. Sauté these together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add Spices and Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavor. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes and mix everything well. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Incorporate Wine and Broth:
If you’re using white wine, add it now along with the seafood broth. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it reduces a bit.
5. Cook the Seafood:
Add the mixed seafood to the skillet. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and the mussels and clams have opened up. Remember to discard any shells that haven’t opened!
6. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, then season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Gently toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, making sure it gets nicely coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.
8. Add Final Touches:
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice for that extra burst of flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta immediately, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley for garnish. Enjoy your spicy seafood pasta with rich tomato butter sauce!
Enjoy cooking and happy eating! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Seafood for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen seafood works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before adding it to the sauce. This ensures even cooking and great texture!
What Can I Use as a Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute with an equal amount of seafood broth or vegetable broth for added flavor. A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can also help mimic the acidity that wine provides.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a little water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this pasta vegetarian, omit the seafood and replace it with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for extra substance!
