Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli and Bell Peppers Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that packs a flavorful punch while still feeling fresh and vibrant, this Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli and Bell Peppers Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. Imagine perfectly cooked shrimp nestled in a zesty arrabbiata sauce, mingling with tender-crisp broccoli and sweet bell peppers, all tossed with al dente pasta. It’s comfort and excitement rolled into one bowl, combining wholesome ingredients with bold flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli and Bell Peppers Recipe shine. Each item plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of texture, color, and heat that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Whole wheat spaghetti (8 ounces): Opt for whole wheat for a nutty flavor and extra fiber that pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (1 ½ tablespoons): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
- Broccoli florets (1 large head, about 5 cups): Provides a fresh crunch and vibrant green color for visual appeal and nutrition.
- Yellow bell pepper (1 medium, cut into ½-inch pieces): Brings a sweet, bright contrast that balances the heat.
- Red bell pepper (1 medium, cut into ½-inch pieces): Adds sweetness and a pop of color, making the dish look as good as it tastes.
- Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors throughout the recipe.
- Shallot (1, minced): Offers a mild, sweet onion flavor that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the dish with that unmistakable fragrance and savory bite.
- Spicy arrabbiata pasta sauce (25-ounce jar): The heart of the dish, delivering that signature spicy tomato kick without extra fuss.
- Raw large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Adds tenderness and a satisfying protein that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh parsley (3 tablespoons, minced): Sprinkles brightness and fresh herbal notes to finish the dish.
- Parmesan cheese (3 tablespoons, finely grated, optional): For a creamy, salty touch that complements the spice perfectly.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli and Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s just al dente — you want that little bite to perfectly complement the saucy mixture. Once done, drain and set aside, but don’t rinse; the starch on the noodles will help the sauce cling perfectly in the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the pasta cooks, heat your extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the broccoli florets, red, and yellow bell peppers, along with the kosher salt. Let them cook for 2 minutes to begin softening and releasing their flavors. Next, add the minced shallot and sauté until the shallots start to brown and the vegetables are crisp-tender—a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender pasta. Finish this step by stirring in the garlic, cooking it just until fragrant to avoid any bitterness.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Shrimp
Pour your spicy arrabbiata sauce into the skillet and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where magic happens — the sauce warms, thickens slightly, and infuses all the veggies with its bold tomato flavor. Then add your peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking them gently in the simmering sauce until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes just a few minutes, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Once your shrimp and vegetables are perfectly cooked in the sauce, add in the drained pasta straight into the skillet. Toss everything together with loving care so every strand of spaghetti is coated in that spicy, tangy sauce, mingled with vibrant veggies and succulent shrimp. It’s here that the flavors come together into a harmonious, mouthwatering melody.
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli and Bell Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly minced parsley right before serving. It adds a wonderful pop of green and a fresh, slightly peppery taste that brightens the whole dish. If you love cheese, a light dusting of finely grated Parmesan melts into the warm pasta, adding depth and a subtle creaminess that tempers the heat beautifully.
Side Dishes
This vibrant pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette or crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. A chilled glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon also complements well, cutting through the spice and refreshing the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual deep bowls, layering with extra whole shrimp on top as a garnish. Add a wedge of lemon beside for those who like a citrusy burst. Another idea is to drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil infused with chili flakes over the finished dish to amp up the spice and flavor complexity, giving your guests something extra to savor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. The Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli and Bell Peppers Recipe holds up well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and delicious meal to enjoy later.
Freezing
This dish isn’t ideal for freezing because the texture of the shrimp and vegetables can suffer once thawed. However, you can freeze leftover plain cooked pasta separately for best results and combine it with fresh sauce and shrimp later when ready to eat.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist. This method helps maintain the tenderness of the shrimp and crispness of the veggies without drying out the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the sauce, which could dilute the flavors.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer less heat, opt for a milder tomato sauce or use half the amount of arrabbiata sauce and add fresh diced tomatoes for sweetness. For more spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking.
What pasta types work best for this recipe?
While whole wheat spaghetti is recommended for that nutty touch and nutrition, linguine or fettuccine also work wonderfully as their wider strands grab the sauce nicely.
Can I substitute vegetables in this dish?
Yes! Feel free to swap in zucchini, asparagus, or snap peas depending on what you have. Just adjust cooking times to maintain crisp-tender textures.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta options. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be certain.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli and Bell Peppers Recipe is a celebration of flavor, color, and wholesome ingredients that comes together quickly and easily. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or impressing guests with something special, this dish won’t disappoint. Dive into its vibrant sauce, tender shrimp, and crunchy veggies, and enjoy every spicy, satisfying bite. Trust me, once you try it, it’s going to become one of your favorite go-to meals!
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Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli and Bell Peppers Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and flavorful Spicy Shrimp Pasta recipe featuring whole wheat noodles, sautéed fresh vegetables, and a zesty arrabbiata sauce. This dish combines tender shrimp with crisp broccoli and bell peppers, tossed with spicy tomato sauce and finished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine noodles
Vegetables
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets (about 5 cups)
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, cut into ½-inch pieces
- 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into ½-inch pieces
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Protein
- 1 (25-ounce) jar spicy arrabbiata pasta sauce
- 1 pound raw large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Garnish
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook whole wheat spaghetti (or linguine/fettuccine) al dente according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat 1 ½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets, red and yellow bell peppers, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add minced shallot to the skillet and continue cooking until the vegetables are crisp-tender and the shallot starts to brown. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Sauce and Shrimp: Stir in the entire 25-ounce jar of spicy arrabbiata pasta sauce, bringing it to a simmer. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined raw large shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp in the simmering sauce for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Combine and Serve: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and incorporate the shrimp and vegetables. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley and 3 tablespoons of finely grated Parmesan cheese over the top if desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and a nuttier flavor, but any pasta shape will work.
- For a milder spice level, use plain marinara sauce instead of spicy arrabbiata.
- If shrimp is frozen, thaw completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Parmesan cheese is optional; omit for a dairy-free meal.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute pasta with gluten-free noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
