Description
Creamy Crab and Shrimp Alfredo with Grilled Corn
Ingredients:
250g fettuccine pasta
200g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
200g crab legs (cooked and cracked)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
2 ears of corn (grilled)
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Make the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Old Bay seasoning until the sauce thickens.
Combine the seafood and pasta: Add the cooked fettuccine, shrimp, and crab legs to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Grill the corn: Brush the corn with olive oil and grill over medium-high heat until lightly charred. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta with shrimp and crab, and serve with the grilled corn on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley for an elegant touch.
This luxurious seafood pasta paired with grilled corn is perfect for a special meal.
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Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed guide. Begin by prepping all ingredients before you start cooking. Grill your corn first, as it can sit while you prepare the pasta. When cooking the shrimp, ensure your skillet is hot to get a slight sear without overcooking. For the sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer after adding the cream to prevent it from breaking. Slowly sprinkle in the grated Parmesan while stirring constantly to create a smooth, lump-free sauce. Finally, combine the pasta and seafood off the direct heat to gently warm the crab without making it rubbery.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the seafood. Place the grilled corn on the side, or cut the kernels off the cob and sprinkle them over the pasta for added sweetness and texture. A light, crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the dish’s creaminess. For wine, a buttery Chardonnay or a dry Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully. Serve immediately with crusty garlic bread for dipping into the extra Alfredo sauce.
How-to Summary
In summary: Grill corn and set aside. Cook fettuccine al dente. Sauté shrimp in oil until pink and remove. In the same pan, sauté garlic, then simmer cream. Whisk in Parmesan and Old Bay until thickened. Toss pasta, shrimp, and crab meat in the sauce to heat through. Serve alongside grilled corn, garnished with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp and crab? Yes, fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid a watery sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, use half-and-half, but note the sauce will be less thick. A roux (butter and flour) can help thicken it.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore sauciness.
Is there a substitute for Old Bay seasoning? You can use a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time? It’s best fresh, but you can prepare the base sauce 1-2 hours ahead. Reheat gently and add cheese just before serving to prevent separation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them tough and rubbery.
- Adding Parmesan cheese to boiling cream, which can cause it to clump instead of melt smoothly.
- Not reserving some pasta water. A splash can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan from a canister, which often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as well as freshly grated.
- Overcrowding the skillet when cooking the shrimp, which steams them instead of sautéing.
Conclusion
This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Alfredo with Grilled Corn is a restaurant-quality dish that is surprisingly straightforward to master at home. The combination of sweet seafood, rich Parmesan sauce, and smoky corn creates a truly special dining experience. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently prepare a luxurious meal that is sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!