Craving a seafood feast? Dive into my quick and easy seafood spaghetti recipe! With tender shrimp, calamari, and mussels in a rich tomato sauce, this dish is sure to impress. It’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. I’ll guide you step-by-step to create a flavorful meal that’s ready in no time. Let’s make dinner exciting and delicious!
Ingredients
Seafood Ingredients
– 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 200g calamari, sliced into rings
– 200g mussels, cleaned
Other Ingredients
– 250g spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
– 400g can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– Zest of 1 lemon
For a tasty seafood spaghetti, you need fresh seafood. Shrimp, calamari, and mussels are my go-to choices. They cook quickly and add great flavor. I always make sure my seafood is cleaned and ready to go.
Next, gather your pasta and some simple kitchen staples. Spaghetti is perfect for this dish. I love using olive oil for its rich taste. Garlic and onion give a lovely base to the sauce. A bit of red chili adds a nice kick.
Canned diced tomatoes bring everything together. They create a saucy and hearty mix. Dried oregano adds a classic Italian touch. Season with salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
Lastly, a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon zest makes it bright and fresh. This mix of ingredients creates a beautiful seafood spaghetti. You can find the full recipe to make this dish shine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Spaghetti
– In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the spaghetti.
– Cook until al dente, then drain.
Cooking spaghetti is simple. You want to boil water and add salt. This helps flavor the pasta. Stir the spaghetti to prevent sticking. Check the package for cooking time. The pasta should be firm but not hard. Once done, drain the pasta, but save some water. This water helps later.
Sautéing Aromatics
– Heat olive oil in a skillet.
– Sauté onion until translucent.
Grab a large skillet and heat olive oil. Use medium heat for best results. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Stir it for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to become soft and clear. This step builds a tasty base for your dish.
Adding Seafood and Sauce
– Combine seafood and cook until shrimp turns pink.
– Stir in diced tomatoes and oregano.
Now, it’s time for the seafood! Raise the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp, calamari, and mussels. Cook for about 3-4 minutes. Watch for the shrimp to turn pink. That means it’s ready! Then, pour in the diced tomatoes. Add oregano for flavor. Stir everything well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Mixing Everything Together
– Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet.
– Toss to combine and adjust consistency with pasta water.
Once the seafood and sauce are ready, add the spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together. If it seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This helps mix it all nicely. You want every strand of spaghetti covered in sauce. Enjoy your delicious seafood spaghetti! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing Fresh Seafood
When picking seafood, freshness matters most. Look for shrimp that are firm and slightly shiny. The shells should feel smooth without any dark spots. For calamari, choose ones that smell like the sea, not fishy. Their flesh should be slightly translucent. For mussels, they should be closed tightly. If any are open, give them a gentle tap. If they don’t close, toss them out. Fresh seafood enhances your dish’s taste and texture.
Perfecting the Spaghetti Texture
To get perfect al dente pasta, start with a big pot of water. Add salt to make it taste like the sea. Then bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the spaghetti. Cook according to the package directions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Taste a strand a minute before the time ends; it should be firm yet tender. Save a splash of pasta water to help mix your sauce later.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost flavor, consider adding spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add brightness. You might also try a splash of white wine for depth. For a hint of sweetness, toss in a bit of sugar. Each addition can elevate your seafood spaghetti and make it even more delicious.
Variations
Adding Vegetables
You can add many tasty vegetables to your seafood spaghetti. Bell peppers add a nice crunch. Spinach gives a fresh taste and bright color. You can also use zucchini or peas for more flavors. Just sauté them with the onions before adding the seafood. This makes the dish even better!
Creamy Version
To make a creamy seafood spaghetti, add heavy cream. After you cook the seafood and sauce, stir in about a cup of cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes. This will create a rich, smooth sauce that clings to the pasta. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This creamy twist is sure to impress!
Gluten-Free or Alternative Noodles
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great taste and texture. You can also try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. These alternatives add nutrients and cut down on carbs. Just cook them lightly and add to your seafood sauce. Explore these options for a fun twist on this classic dish!
For the full recipe, check out the Delicious Seafood Spaghetti section.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your seafood spaghetti fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion.
Reheating Instructions
To safely reheat your leftovers, use a skillet. Heat it on low, adding a splash of water or broth. This keeps the pasta moist and tasty. Stir often until it’s hot. You can also use a microwave. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts. Check it frequently to avoid overcooking.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze seafood spaghetti, let it cool completely. Divide it into portions and place them in freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave. Reheat it well to ensure food safety.
FAQs
How long does seafood spaghetti keep in the fridge?
Seafood spaghetti can last in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container. Reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again. This will help keep the flavors fresh.
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Just thaw it before cooking. This saves time and still gives great flavor. Make sure to pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What are the best side dishes to serve with seafood spaghetti?
Great side dishes for seafood spaghetti include:
– Garlic bread
– A fresh green salad
– Roasted vegetables
– A light Italian antipasto platter
These sides add balance and enhance your meal experience.
What wine pairs well with seafood spaghetti?
White wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pair best with seafood spaghetti. Their crispness complements the dish well. For a red option, choose a light-bodied wine like Chianti for a nice contrast.
Is there a way to make seafood spaghetti less spicy?
To reduce the spice, skip the red chili or use a mild pepper. You can also add more tomatoes or a splash of cream. This makes the dish flavorful without the heat. For a milder taste, just adjust to your liking.
This seafood spaghetti is simple yet full of flavor. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting this dish. Remember, fresh seafood makes a big difference. You can even try different veggies or a creamy version. Store leftovers properly to enjoy them later. I hope this recipe inspires your next meal. Happy cooking!
