Blackened Shrimp Linguine Dish: A Flavorful Seafood Delight You Must Try

Blackened Shrimp Linguine Dish is a culinary delight that brings the vibrant flavors of the South right to your dinner table. As I first discovered this recipe during a trip to New Orleans, I was captivated by the bold spices and the perfect balance of heat and flavor. The blackening technique, which involves coating shrimp in a blend of spices and searing them to perfection, not only enhances the taste but also creates a delightful crust that adds texture to the dish.

People love this Blackened Shrimp Linguine Dish for its incredible taste and the way it effortlessly combines the richness of linguine with the zesty, smoky shrimp. It’s a dish that’s not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. Join me as we dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish that celebrates the essence of Southern cuisine!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon

Preparing the Shrimp

1. Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning stick better and prevents the shrimp from steaming when cooked. 2. In a medium bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a spice blend that will give the shrimp that signature blackened flavor. 3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss the shrimp in the spice mixture until they are evenly coated. I like to let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes to really soak in those flavors, but if you’re short on time, you can cook them right away.

Cooking the Pasta

4. While the shrimp is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. 5. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside. I like to toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together while I finish the rest of the dish.

Cooking the Shrimp

6. In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches. 7. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and start to develop a nice char. Flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side. The shrimp should be opaque and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Making the Sauce

8. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. 9. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds a ton of flavor to the sauce! Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. 10. Next, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. If you find the sauce too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 11. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they soften slightly. The burst of sweetness from the tomatoes complements the spiciness of the shrimp beautifully.

Combining Everything

12. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the creamy sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a little more of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess. 13. Return the blackened shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. I love to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at this point for a bright, zesty finish. 14. Finally, sprinkle in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is evenly distributed. The cheese adds a lovely richness to the dish.

Serving the Dish

15. Serve the blackened shrimp linguine immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. I like to pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. 16. Enjoy your meal!

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Blackened Shrimp Linguine dish is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The combination of perfectly seasoned shrimp, al dente linguine, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Not only is it a feast for the senses, but it also comes together in a flash, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and nutrition. For those who prefer a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can take the dish to the next level. I encourage you to give this Blackened Shrimp Linguine a try and make it your own! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your personal twist, I would love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, tips, and any variations you come up with in the comments below or on social media. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Print