Creamy Avocado Pasta with Garlic Shrimp
Indulge in a culinary experience that combines the rich creaminess of ripe avocados with the delightful zest of garlic shrimp. This creamy avocado pasta not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional for a non-vegan version)
For the Garlic Shrimp:
- 1 lb of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp of butter or olive oil
- 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- In a food processor, combine the avocados, minced garlic, basil leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Garlic Shrimp
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add butter or olive oil.
- Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and creamy avocado sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Add the garlic shrimp on top and gently mix.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Tips
Selecting Ingredients:
- Avocados: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. This ensures a creamy texture for the sauce.
- Shrimp: Fresh shrimp should have a mild scent and firm texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the refrigerator for several hours before cooking.
Enhancing Flavor:
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or lemon zest to the avocado sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the finished dish for a lovely sheen and richness.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free alternatives such as zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta.
- Protein Alternatives: For a different protein, consider grilled chicken, tofu, or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your creamy avocado pasta with a side salad of mixed greens, drizzled with a light vinaigrette, to complement the richness of the dish. For an elevated dining experience, serve with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which enhances the freshness of the ingredients.
Mouthwatering Photography Ideas
Capture the vibrant greens of the avocado sauce and the rosy pink of the shrimp. A top-down shot with the spaghetti twirled on a fork can showcase the creamy texture beautifully. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a lemon wedge for added color and freshness in the shot.
Further Reading and Resources
For more delicious pasta recipes and culinary tips, explore these resources:
This creamy avocado pasta with garlic shrimp is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will surely impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. So grab your ingredients and start cooking!
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