Hey there, fellow food aficionados! Sophia here, ready to guide you on a culinary adventure to the heart of Italy with a dish that’s as simple to prepare as it is bursting with flavor: Penne with Shrimp. This classic recipe is a symphony of textures and tastes, featuring perfectly cooked penne pasta coated in a luscious tomato sauce, studded with succulent shrimp, and finished with a generous sprinkle of salty Parmesan cheese.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. So, grab your apron, put on your chef’s hat (optional, but encouraged!), and let’s dive into a world of deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Penne with Shrimp Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready to impress.
• Budget-Friendly: Shrimp can sometimes feel like a splurge, but this recipe uses affordable frozen shrimp that thaws quickly and cooks up beautifully.
• Versatile: Feel free to get creative and add your own personal touch! Incorporate your favorite vegetables, experiment with different herbs, or spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Unveiling the Ingredients

Before we embark on our culinary adventure, let’s gather our culinary comrades—the ingredients that will transform into a symphony of flavors:

For the Pasta:

• 1 (16-ounce) package penne pasta: Penne’s ridges and hollow centers are perfect for capturing every drop of our flavorful sauce.
• Salt: A pinch of salt for the pasta water enhances the pasta’s natural flavor.

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: We’ll use this heart-healthy oil to sauté our aromatics and create a rich base for the sauce.
• ¼ cup chopped red onion: Red onion adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of sharpness to our sauce.
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic: Garlic, our aromatic hero, infuses the sauce with its signature savory depth.
• ¼ cup white wine: A splash of white wine adds complexity and depth to the sauce, creating a more rounded flavor profile.
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide a convenient and flavorful base for our sauce.

For the Shrimp and Finishing Touches:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: We’re using succulent shrimp as our protein powerhouse, adding a delightful briny sweetness to the dish.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami richness that takes this dish to the next level.

Step-by-Step Guide to Penne Perfection

1. Pasta Power: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt – remember, we’re seasoning the pasta, not the ocean! Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture – firm to the bite, but not crunchy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sautéing Symphony: While the pasta is doing its thing, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until it softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

3. Wine and Dine the Sauce: Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Shrimply Irresistible: Add the shrimp to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they’re cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.

5. The Grand Finale: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and tomato sauce. Toss everything together gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in that luscious sauce.

6. Serve and Savor: Transfer the penne with shrimp to a serving platter or individual bowls. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Nutritional Insights

This Penne with Shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also provides a good source of essential nutrients.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	385
Fat	9g	11%
Saturated Fat	3g	13%
Cholesterol	95mg	32%
Sodium	399mg	17%
Carbohydrates	49g	18%
Fiber	4g	13%
Sugar	4g
Protein	25g	49%
Vitamin C	9mg	10%
Calcium	188mg	14%
Iron	6mg	31%
Potassium	322mg	7%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note: Nutritional information is a general guideline and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Tips and Tricks for Culinary Success

• Shrimp Selection: For optimal flavor and texture, opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Al Dente Delight: Cook the pasta al dente, or firm to the bite, to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking, which can result in a rubbery texture.
• Seasoning is Key: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the sauce throughout the cooking process to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
• Garnish with Gusto: Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, add a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

FAQs: Answering Your Culinary Queries

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Absolutely! While penne is the classic choice for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle, or even spaghetti.

Q: Can I substitute the white wine?

A: Yes, you can use an equal amount of chicken broth or even water if you prefer to omit the alcohol.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Consider adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Explore More Culinary Delights

• Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter, low-carb option, try this delicious Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles recipe: https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/254541/shrimp-scampi-with-zucchini-noodles/
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Indulge in the rich flavors of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe: https://cafedelites.com/garlic-butter-shrimp-pasta/
• Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta: Take your taste buds on a trip to the Mediterranean with this flavorful Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta recipe: https://www.themediterraneandish.com/mediterranean-shrimp-pasta/

There you have it, fellow food lovers! A simple yet incredibly satisfying Penne with Shrimp recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight staple in your household. Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and having fun in the kitchen, so don’t be afraid to add your own personal flair. Happy cooking!