Comforting Shrimp Spaghetti with Garlic Bread
Ingredients:
For the Spaghetti:
8 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup white wine (optional, but recommended)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
For the Garlic Bread:
4 slices of your favorite bread (baguette, Italian, or sourdough work great)
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
Instructions:
Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
Prepare the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Tomato Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. Simmer together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If needed, add more pasta water to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
Make the Garlic Bread:
Preheat your oven’s broiler. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto the bread slices.
Place the bread under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy.
Serve:
Plate the shrimp spaghetti on a simple white square plate. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for garnish.
Place a slice of golden garlic bread next to the pasta, slightly overlapping for that cozy, home-cooked feel.
Serve immediately with a glass of white wine (optional) and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this meal!
This dish combines rich, savory tomato sauce with succulent shrimp and garlic bread that will transport you straight to a cozy kitchen. The natural lighting and imperfections in the sauce bring out the charm and comfort of a homemade meal.