Creamy Caesar Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli

Caesar Shrimp and Pasta Recipe

Overview

The “Caesar Shrimp and Pasta” dish is a delightful and quick meal that effortlessly combines the succulent flavors of shrimp with the classic appeal of Caesar dressing, paired beautifully with mostaccioli pasta and fresh broccoli florets. This dish not only provides a wholesome meal but does so in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. It’s categorized under healthy recipes and is ideal for those looking to enjoy a flavorful dish without compromising on nutrition. With a calorie count of 440.9 per serving and a substantial protein content of 22.7 grams, this dish balances taste and health seamlessly.

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 440.9 kcal
• Fat Content: 8.7 g
• Saturated Fat Content: 2 g
• Cholesterol Content: 115.1 mg
• Sodium Content: 1955 mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 68.9 g
• Fiber Content: 2 g
• Sugar Content: 21.4 g
• Protein Content: 22.7 g

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of mostaccioli pasta
• 3 cups of broccoli florets
• 1/3 cup of Caesar dressing (plus 2 tablespoons for cooking)
• 12 ounces of medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 teaspoon of hot red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup of grated Romano cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare Pasta and Broccoli:

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   • Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to the package directions. Approximately 3 minutes before the pasta reaches al dente, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This ensures that the broccoli cooks through but remains crisp and vibrant in color.

2. Cook Shrimp:

   • While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of Caesar dressing in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the shrimp and hot red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes or until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque. Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Drain the pasta and broccoli and transfer them to a large serving bowl.
   • Add the remaining 1/3 cup of Caesar dressing and the cooked shrimp mixture to the pasta and broccoli. Toss everything well to ensure that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.

4. Serve:

   • Sprinkle the grated Romano cheese over the top.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy your Caesar Shrimp and Pasta!

Cooking Tips and Variations

• Dressing Variations: While Caesar dressing is traditional, you can experiment with other dressings or even a homemade version to add a personal twist to this dish.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even spinach to increase the nutritional value and add more color.
• Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of hot red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. For a milder dish, use less, or omit them entirely. For more heat, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper.
• Cheese Options: Romano cheese adds a nice salty tang, but Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can be great substitutes if you prefer their flavors.
• Pasta Choices: If you don’t have mostaccioli, penne or rigatoni are excellent alternatives. Any short pasta that can hold the dressing well will work.

Nutritional Benefits

• High Protein: The shrimp provides a good amount of protein, making this dish suitable for those looking to increase their protein intake.
• Balanced Carbohydrates: The pasta offers a steady source of energy, complemented by the fiber in the broccoli.
• Essential Vitamins: Broccoli is a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and fiber, enhancing the overall nutritional profile of the meal.
• Healthy Fats: While the fat content in the dressing is moderate, it adds flavor and helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the broccoli.

Pairing Suggestions

• Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish, cutting through the richness of the dressing and complementing the shrimp.
• Salad: A light side salad with a lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy Caesar dressing.
• Bread: Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra dressing and add a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Serving and Storage

• Serving: This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the textures and flavors at their peak. The pasta and shrimp can be prepared in advance, but it’s best to toss them together with the dressing just before serving.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra dressing or a splash of water to keep the pasta from drying out.

Additional Notes

• Shrimp Selection: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp can be used but should be thawed properly before cooking.
• Caesar Dressing: A good-quality Caesar dressing makes a significant difference in the flavor of this dish. Homemade dressing or a well-reviewed store-bought brand can elevate the dish.
• Cooking Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. As soon as it turns pink and opaque, it’s ready to be removed from heat.

This Caesar Shrimp and Pasta recipe offers a delectable and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Its blend of creamy Caesar dressing, tender shrimp, and vibrant broccoli creates a satisfying dish that appeals to various palates. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this recipe provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures in each bite. Enjoy this quick and easy meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste for convenience!