Fra Diablo Shrimp Pasta: Easy Spicy Recipe

The fiery flair of Fra Diablo Shrimp Pasta captures the essence of spice lovers' dreams. Imagine succulent shrimp bathed in a devilishly hot sauce, balanced with the al dente perfection of pasta. This recipe is not just a dish; it's an experience that ignites the palate and brings a thrilling warmth to your dining table.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect Fra Diablo sauce requires the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 ounces of spaghetti or linguine
• 1/2 cup of olive oil
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1/2 cup of dry white wine
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Shrimp

Start by prepping the shrimp:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. If you prefer, season with a pinch of salt and pepper or a bit of lemon juice for added flavor.

Cooking the Pasta

Follow these steps to cook your pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions.
3. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining; this can be used to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Making the Fra Diablo Sauce

The sauce is the heart of this dish:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and onion, cooking until they’re softened but not browned, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the red pepper flakes, oregano, and basil. Let the spices bloom for about 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and white wine, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Taste and adjust salt and red pepper flakes to achieve your desired heat level.

Combining the Pasta and Shrimp

Here’s how you bring it all together:

1. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the sauce. Cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes, being careful not to overcook.
2. Drain the pasta and toss it into the skillet with the sauce, coating the strands evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, thin it out with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
3. Let the pasta cook for an additional minute in the sauce, which helps it absorb the flavors.

🔥 Note: If you prefer a less spicy dish, you can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or use only half in the beginning, adding more after tasting.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your Fra Diablo Shrimp Pasta experience with these suggestions:

• Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.
• A generous dusting of Parmesan cheese can balance the heat with its salty creaminess.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
• Pair with a crisp white wine to complement the spices.

Final Thoughts

Creating Fra Diablo Shrimp Pasta is more than following a recipe; it’s about igniting your culinary passion. With each bite, you’ll taste the fiery embrace of the sauce, the tender succulence of the shrimp, and the comforting chew of the pasta. It’s a dish that invites sharing, conversation, and the joy of a meal that tells a story of spice and savor.

Can I make Fra Diablo sauce less spicy?

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Yes, you can adjust the spice level by reducing the amount of red pepper flakes or by adding ingredients like cream or more crushed tomatoes to dilute the heat.

What can I substitute for white wine in the recipe?

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If you don’t have white wine, you can use chicken or vegetable stock, or even a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

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Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat gently on the stove before adding freshly cooked pasta and shrimp to serve.