Delicious Seafood Rigatoni: A Delightful Dinner Party Dish
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
This delectable Seafood Rigatoni recipe, handed down to me in the early 90s from Weight Watchers, perfectly balances fresh seafood flavors with the comforting heartiness of pasta. It is an ideal choice for a dinner party, offering a delightful and elegant touch that is both satisfying and light on the palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3-4 |
| Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Carrot, diced | 1 medium |
| Dry red wine | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon, zest of | 1 |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Rigatoni pasta | 12 ounces |
| Shrimp, peeled and deveined | 24 large |
| Bay scallops | 1 1/4 cups |
| Part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded | 3 cups |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360.6 |
| Total Fat | 9.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 93.5 mg |
| Sodium | 584.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 42.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g |
| Sugars | 6.1 g |
| Protein | 25.4 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan set over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Once the oil is warm and shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautรฉing for about 3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
-
Build the Flavor: Incorporate the diced tomatoes, diced carrot, dry red wine, lemon zest, dried oregano, salt, and a dash of red pepper flakes for added warmth. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat, allowing it to simmer uncovered for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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Preheat the Oven: While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly melted cheese topping later on.
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Cook the Pasta: Prepare the rigatoni according to the package instructions, typically about 10 to 12 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and transfer it to a 13 x 9-inch casserole dish that has been lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Combine the Ingredients: Gently fold the sautรฉed shrimp and bay scallops into the rigatoni, ensuring that everything is evenly mixed. The heat from the pasta will begin to cook the seafood slightly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta and seafood mixture. The cheese will create a rich, gooey layer that enhances the dish’s overall texture and flavor.
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Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven, baking for approximately 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the seafood is cooked through. The edges should be slightly bubbly and golden, indicating that the dish is ready.
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Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor profile of the dish.
This Seafood Rigatoni is not just a meal; it’s an experience, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner. With its blend of succulent seafood, savory pasta, and aromatic herbs, each bite is a celebration of flavors that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast. Enjoy your culinary creation, and savor the delightful moments shared over a delicious dinner!
