Divine Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes: A Luxurious Mediterranean Delight

The Culinary Story Behind the Dish

Imagine a dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean coastal cooking – where fresh seafood meets rich, creamy sauce and vibrant cherry tomatoes. This divine shrimp pasta represents more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple yet extraordinary flavors that transport you to sun-drenched Mediterranean shores with every single bite.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 300 grams peeled shrimp (fresh or thawed)
• 250 grams spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
• 100 grams cherry tomatoes, halved
• 50 grams unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

For the Aromatics

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika powder

For the Cream Sauce

• 70 grams cream cheese (like Boursin or Philadelphia)
• 100 ml cooking cream (or heavy cream)
• 50 grams Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Seasoning

• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Pasta Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. Drain pasta and set aside.

Shrimp and Sauce Preparation

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Season shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika powder.
3. Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Add shrimp to the skillet, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked.
7. Remove shrimp and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Creating the Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Add cream cheese and cooking cream, stirring until smooth.
3. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
4. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet, gently coating with sauce.
6. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Final Assembly

1. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet.
2. Toss gently to ensure pasta is evenly coated with sauce and shrimp.
3. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving

• Calories: 542 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 3g

Cooking Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Expert Cooking Tips and Tricks

Shrimp Perfection

• Never overcook shrimp – they turn rubbery quickly
• Cook until just pink and slightly curved
• Pat shrimp dry before cooking for better caramelization

Sauce Secrets

• Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother sauce
• Add pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
• Grate Parmesan fresh for maximum flavor

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Protein Alternatives

• Replace shrimp with chicken or scallops
• Use plant-based shrimp for vegetarian version
• Try white fish for a different seafood experience

Dietary Modifications

• Use gluten-free pasta
• Substitute cream with lactose-free alternatives
• Replace cream cheese with cashew cream for vegan option

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess water.

How do I know when shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp turn pink and curl slightly when done. Avoid overcooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Best prepared fresh. Cream sauces can separate when reheated.

What wine pairs well with this pasta?

A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, seafood flavors.

Is this dish spicy?

Mild, with a hint of paprika. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigeration

• Store in airtight container
• Consume within 1-2 days
• Reheat gently to prevent sauce separation

Prep Strategy

• Chop vegetables in advance
• Grate cheese beforehand
• Cook pasta and sauce just before serving

Buon appetito! Enjoy this Mediterranean marvel!