East Meets West with This Spicy Korean Shrimp Scampi Pasta
This Spicy Korean Shrimp Scampi Pasta is more than just a dish; it’s a delightful fusion that brings together my love for Italian cuisine and the bold flavors of Korean cooking. I remember the first time I tried shrimp scampi at a family gathering, the buttery garlic sauce enveloping the pasta was heavenly. Fast forward to my culinary adventures, and I decided to spice things up by incorporating gochujang, a staple in Korean kitchens. The result? A dish that not only satisfies my cravings but also tells a story of cultural blending.
What Makes It Special
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Flavor Fusion: The combination of garlic, butter, and gochujang creates a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and vibrant vegetables ensures that every bite is packed with nutrients and flavor.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Get Cooking
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add gochujang, remaining butter, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
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Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, add a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
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Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread
- Simple green salad with sesame dressing
- Chilled white wine or a light beer
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance and toss it with the pasta just before serving.
The Heart of the Dish
This Spicy Korean Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a celebration of flavors and cultures. It reminds me that cooking is not just about following recipes; it’s about creating memories and sharing experiences with loved ones. Each bite is a reminder of my culinary journey and the joy of experimenting in the kitchen.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to tweak the ingredients or spice levels to suit your taste. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your feedback!
East Meets West with This Spicy Korean Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Garlic bread
- Simple green salad with sesame dressing
- Chilled white wine or a light beer
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the gochujang and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and soy sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the shrimp and sauce until well combined.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve with garlic bread, a simple green salad with sesame dressing, and chilled white wine or light beer.
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