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Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Pasta with Shrimps and Octopus

A decadent seafood pasta dish that marries the richness of shrimp with the subtle taste of octopus, all dressed in a fragrant garlic and parsley sauce.

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This Italian seafood pasta combines succulent shrimp, tender octopus, and aromatic herbs, creating a mouthwatering meal that brings the Mediterranean to your table. The dish is infused with garlic, fresh parsley, and a touch of tomatoes, enhancing the seafood’s natural flavors.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients (For Four People)

  • 300g spaghetti or linguine pasta
  • 8 large shrimp, cleaned and deveined
  • 150g octopus, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup white wine (dry, for deglazing)
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for freshness)
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional for added texture)

Note: 1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Cook the spaghetti or linguine in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Seafood

Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Add Onion and Octopus

Add the diced onion and chopped octopus to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and the octopus begins to cook through.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 5: Add Shrimp and Tomatoes

Add the shrimp and diced tomato to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Cook for another 5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to combine, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce’s flavors.

Step 7: Finish with Parsley and Lemon Zest

Add the chopped parsley and lemon zest, stirring everything together. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the pasta for a glossy finish.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for texture if desired.

A decadent seafood pasta dish that marries the richness of shrimp with the subtle taste of octopus, all dressed in a fragrant garlic and parsley sauce.
A decadent seafood pasta dish that marries the richness of shrimp with the subtle taste of octopus, all dressed in fragrant garlic and parsley sauce.

Tips and Tricks

  • Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
  • Flavor Balance: The white wine adds acidity, balancing the richness of the shrimp and octopus. If preferred, substitute with vegetable stock.
  • Pine Nut Toasting: Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet before adding them for a richer, nuttier flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Dishes: For a complete meal, serve with crusty Italian bread and a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.

Wine Pairing

  • Typical Wine: A crisp Italian Pinot Grigio or a Verdicchio pairs beautifully with the seafood, enhancing the dish’s delicate flavors.
  • Bulgarian Wine: For a unique pairing, try a Bulgarian Muscat. It offers light floral notes that complement the seafood.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g

Dietary Modifications

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
  • Dairy-Free: This dish is naturally dairy-free.

About the Pasta with Shrimp and Octopus

This seafood pasta is inspired by Italian coastal cuisine, celebrating the ocean’s bounty with simplicity and elegance. The combination of shrimp and octopus offers a textural contrast, with each bite bursting with the freshness of the Mediterranean.

Cultural Context

Italian seafood dishes from Sicily and the Amalfi Coast emphasize fresh ingredients with minimal seasoning to highlight natural flavors. This pasta captures the essence of Italian seaside dining and reminds us of the country’s rich culinary heritage.

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