Description
A decadent and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender shrimp and sweet crab, tossed in a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging on a cozy evening.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine or fettuccine
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup fresh or canned crab meat
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Reduce heat to low, add cream, and simmer gently. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add red pepper flakes for heat, if desired.
- Fold in crab meat, cooked shrimp, and lemon zest. Adjust the sauce with pasta water for desired consistency.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until fully coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with parsley, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and extra Parmesan.
Notes
1️⃣ Do Not Overcook Seafood: Shrimp and crab cook quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as shrimp turn pink and opaque to ensure they stay tender and juicy.
2️⃣ Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is essential for achieving a smooth, cohesive sauce. Add it gradually to adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.
3️⃣ Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley elevate the dish, making the flavors vibrant and balanced. High-quality seafood also makes a significant difference in taste.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
