Lemon Shrimp Rigatoni – A Light & Flavorful Seafood Pasta Recipe
Category: Main Course
Servings: 4
This Lemon Shrimp Rigatoni is a refreshing and savory seafood pasta dish that is perfect for any occasion. With delicate shrimp, fresh lemon zest, and a rich, aromatic bisque-like sauce, this dish takes pasta to a whole new level. The combination of the briny shrimp and tangy lemon, enhanced by the gentle flavors of thyme and garlic, creates a truly harmonious experience that will delight your senses. Follow along for an easy-to-follow recipe that delivers both elegance and flavor.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti Rigati | 320g |
| Shrimp | 600g |
| Shellfish Stock (Fumetto di Crostacei) | 700ml |
| Lemon Juice | 40g |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Thyme | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 30g |
| Water | As needed |
| White Onion | 1 |
| Butter | 50g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by prepping the shrimp. Remove the shells, and with the help of a kitchen tweezer, carefully remove the black intestinal vein running along the back of each shrimp. Once done, set the shrimp aside. -
Make the Shellfish Stock:
In a saucepan, prepare the shellfish stock (fumetto di crostacei). Start by sautéing a finely chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until softened and aromatic. Add white wine to the pan and let it cook down for a minute or two to remove the alcohol. Then add the shellfish stock, allowing it to simmer for about 20 minutes until it reduces by half, intensifying the flavors. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt (keep in mind that the stock is already flavorful). -
Blend the Stock:
Once the stock has reduced, pour it into a blender and blend until smooth. You now have a bisque-like stock that will form the base of your sauce. -
Cook the Pasta:
In a large skillet, heat some extra virgin olive oil. Add a portion of the prepared bisque to the pan and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the rigatoni to the skillet and begin to cook the pasta by risotto-style, stirring occasionally with tongs to coat the pasta in the flavorful bisque. Gradually add the remaining stock, and if you run out of liquid, add hot water a little at a time to continue cooking the pasta until tender. This process should take about 15-20 minutes on low heat, ensuring the pasta absorbs all the flavors. -
Zest and Juice the Lemon:
While the pasta is cooking, wash the lemon thoroughly. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove the zest of the lemon, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith. Cut the zest into thin strips. Squeeze the juice from the lemon and set both aside for later use. -
Cook the Shrimp:
Once the pasta is nearly done, heat a separate pan with a bit of butter. Add the shrimp and sauté them along with the remaining garlic until they turn pink and firm up, which should only take a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add the lemon juice and fresh thyme. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until the shrimp are cooked through and tender. -
Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:
Once the pasta is cooked and the shrimp are ready, add the shrimp and any accumulated juices to the skillet with the pasta. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors of the shrimp and the sauce. Let everything cook for an additional few moments on medium heat to bring everything together. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the garlic cloves from the pan. Transfer the pasta and shrimp onto serving plates, finishing with a sprinkle of lemon zest and a final touch of fresh thyme. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the delightful contrast of the zesty lemon and succulent shrimp in every bite.
Cooking Tips
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Shellfish Stock: You can make the shellfish stock from scratch using shrimp shells or buy pre-made stock for convenience. If you opt for a pre-made stock, be mindful of the salt content, as it can sometimes be quite salty.
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Risotto-style Pasta Cooking: The risotto-style cooking method allows the pasta to absorb all the rich flavors from the bisque, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce. Be sure to stir occasionally and add water or stock if the pasta absorbs the liquid too quickly.
-
Lemon Zest: The zest is essential for adding a burst of fresh lemon flavor. Avoid the white pith, as it can be bitter and overpower the dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
This Lemon Shrimp Rigatoni is an exquisite combination of delicate seafood and bright citrus, making it an ideal choice for seafood lovers and those who crave light, yet flavorful pasta dishes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a dish to impress guests, this recipe will transport you to the Italian coast with every bite. Enjoy!
