Delight your taste buds with this vibrant and zesty Pasta with Shrimp and Jalapeño Orange Sauce! This one-of-a-kind recipe combines tender spaghetti and succulent shrimp with a creamy, tangy sauce infused with the bold flavors of fresh orange juice, a kick of jalapeño heat, and the richness of Parmesan cheese. The citrusy notes are perfectly balanced by the slight spice, creating a harmonious dish that's both refreshing and indulgent. Ready in just 35 minutes, this quick yet impressive meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining. Garnished with fresh parsley and customizable with a dash of reserved pasta water for the ideal sauce consistency, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Serve it hot and savor the bold blend of flavors in every bite!
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the sliced jalapeno and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the fresh orange juice and add the orange zest. Stir to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked spaghetti. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Calories |
2032 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 105.2 g | 135% | |
| Saturated Fat | 48.9 g | 244% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1066 mg | 355% | |
| Sodium | 3370 mg | 147% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 124.0 g | 45% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.1 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.2 g | ||
| Protein | 141.5 g | 283% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 701 mg | 54% | |
| Iron | 8.4 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 1741 mg | 37% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.