Description
Creamy Shrimp and Lobster Pasta
Ingredients:
8 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb lobster tail, cooked and chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and lobster tail, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and the lobster is heated through. Remove the seafood and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in the parmesan cheese until smooth, then add lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked shrimp and lobster, mixing gently.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your rich and creamy seafood pasta!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof dish. First, gather all ingredients (mise en place) before heating your skillet. When cooking the pasta, salt the water generously. While it cooks, begin searing the seafood. The key is to not overcrowd the skillet; cook shrimp in a single layer for even browning. After removing seafood, deglaze the pan with the garlic, scraping up any flavorful bits. When simmering the cream and broth, maintain a gentle bubble—a rolling boil may cause separation. Add cheese off the heat initially to ensure a smooth, clump-free sauce before returning to low warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this pasta immediately while hot and creamy. Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For wine pairings, a buttery Chardonnay or a crisp Pinot Grigio complements the seafood and cream beautifully. Garnish with extra parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or a lemon wedge on the side.
How-to Summary
Boil and drain pasta. Sear shrimp and lobster in oil, then set aside. Sauté garlic in the same pan. Add cream and broth, simmering to thicken. Off heat, stir in parmesan and lemon juice. Season. Combine sauce, pasta, and seafood. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen seafood? Yes. Thaw completely in the refrigerator and pat very dry to avoid watering down the sauce.
How can I make this sauce lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or evaporated milk, but simmer longer to achieve thickness.
What if my sauce breaks or looks grainy? Remove from heat immediately. Whisk in a tablespoon of cold broth or cream until re-emulsified.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Not recommended. The pasta will absorb the sauce. Prep components separately and combine just before serving.
What’s a good lobster substitute? Lump crab meat, scallops, or additional shrimp work well. For a budget version, use surimi (imitation crab).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery. Remove as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Adding parmesan cheese to boiling sauce, which can cause clumping. Always lower the heat first.
- Using pre-grated parmesan from a canister, which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Neglecting to season the pasta water, which is your only chance to flavor the pasta itself.
- Letting the finished pasta sit too long before serving, as the sauce will continue to thicken.
Conclusion
This creamy shrimp and lobster pasta is an elegant yet approachable dish perfect for a special dinner. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The rich, velvety sauce combined with tender seafood and al dente pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Remember to serve it fresh, pair it thoughtfully, and enjoy the luxurious results of your efforts.