Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Bayou Blend Seasoning
Delight in a flavorful Shrimp Linguine featuring perfectly seasoned shrimp, tender pasta, and fresh veggies. Tossed in a Bayou Blend seasoning and finished with a touch of butter, this dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying meal. Ideal for a delicious weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
8 ounces linguine noodles (or similar long noodles)
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4-6 tablespoons Bayou Blend Seasoning
2 tablespoons butter
4-5 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
A handful of chopped chives
Whole cherry tomatoes
Instructions:
Prepare the Shrimp: In a ziplock bag, combine the shrimp with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 4-6 tablespoons of Bayou Blend Seasoning, and 1 tablespoons of minced garlic. Seal and toss to coat.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the linguine noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a frying pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped chives and whole cherry tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes begin to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Ensure they are fully cooked but still tender.
Combine and Finish: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the shrimp and vegetables. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and mix well until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Season and Serve: Sprinkle a few more pinches of Bayou Blend Seasoning over the top. Serve hot, garnished with extra chopped chives if desired.
Suggested Sides/Wine & Drink Parings:
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the flavors of the shrimp and pasta perfectly. It's great for soaking up any extra sauce from the dish.
Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the rich flavors of the shrimp linguine.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a healthy, flavorful contrast to the meal, balancing the richness of the pasta with a touch of green.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay, with its buttery texture and notes of citrus and oak, complements the shrimp and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp, refreshing white wine with bright acidity and hints of green apple and citrus pairs well with seafood and helps cut through the richness of the dish.
Tips:
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to avoid a tough texture. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, save a cup of the cooking water. Adding a splash of it to the sauce can help bind the sauce to the noodles and enhance flavor.
Preheat the Pan: Ensure the skillet or frying pan is hot before adding the shrimp. This helps to sear the shrimp quickly and locks in flavor.
Toss the Noodles Quickly: After combining the pasta with the shrimp and vegetables, toss them quickly to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and seasoning.
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