Shrimp and Tasso Pasta

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Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes and looking for something new to spice up your dinner routine?

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Shrimp and Tasso Pasta
Prep
25 min
Cook
20 min
Total
45 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. In a large pot, bring water with a pinch of salt to a boil.

  2. Add rotini pasta to the boiling water and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked but still firm.

  3. Drain the cooked pasta well using a colander placed in the sink.

  4. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  5. Add tasso to the saucepan and cook for approximately 5 minutes until golden brown.

  6. Stir in garlic, onion, green pepper, green onions, and celery. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

  7. Add basil, thyme, Cajun seasoning, and hot sauce to the saucepan. Cook for 1 minute.

  8. Pour in cream and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.

  9. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in Parmesan cheese. Cook and stir until the sauce slightly thickens, approximately 3 minutes.

  10. Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook until heated through.

  11. Toss the cooked shrimp with the pasta.

  12. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

About this recipe

Shrimp and Tasso Pasta: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes and looking for something new to spice up your dinner routine? Look no further than shrimp and tasso pasta! This mouthwatering recipe combines the succulent flavors of shrimp with the smoky goodness of tasso ham to create a dish that is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.

What is Tasso Ham?

If you haven't heard of tasso ham before, you're in for a treat! Tasso ham is a Cajun-style smoked pork that adds a unique and bold flavor to any dish. It's typically made from the shoulder or butt of the pig and is heavily seasoned with a blend of spices, including cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic, and onion. The result is a tender and incredibly flavorful meat that pairs perfectly with shrimp and pasta.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

When it comes to flavor, shrimp and tasso are a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the shrimp balances out the smokiness of the tasso, creating a harmonious blend that is both savory and satisfying. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to please your taste buds.

Preparing the Shrimp

Before you can start cooking, you'll need to prepare your shrimp. Make sure to remove the shells and devein the shrimp for the best flavor and texture. You can leave the tails on for presentation, or remove them if you prefer.

Cooking the Tasso

Next, it's time to cook the tasso. Start by slicing it into thin strips and frying it in a hot skillet until it's crispy and golden brown. This step helps to bring out the smoky flavors of the ham and adds a delicious crunch to your dish.

Bringing it All Together

Once your shrimp and tasso are cooked, it's time to bring everything together. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions, then toss it in a pan with some olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Add in your cooked shrimp and tasso, along with some fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and give everything a good mix. The result is a pasta dish that is bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress.

In Conclusion

Shrimp and tasso pasta is a delightful twist on a classic dish that is sure to please your taste buds. The combination of succulent shrimp with smoky tasso ham creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. So why not give this recipe a try and elevate your pasta game to a whole new level?

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for linguine, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Whether it's spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, the flavors of the shrimp and tasso will pair well with any type of pasta.

. Can I substitute the tasso ham with another type of meat?

If you can't find tasso ham or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with other types of smoked or cured meats like bacon or pancetta. While the flavors may be slightly different, the dish will still be delicious.

. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to eat. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop.

. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the pasta for some added color and nutrition. Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini would all be delicious additions.

. Is this dish spicy?

The level of spiciness in this dish can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. If you like it hot, feel free to add a bit more.

. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

. Can I make this dish without the shrimp?

Yes, you can make a delicious vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the shrimp and using vegetables as the main ingredient. You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu if you prefer.

. Can I freeze leftovers?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers for up to three months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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