Spicy Cajun Seafood Pasta

Name: Spicy Cajun Seafood Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 300 g linguine; 200 g shrimp (peeled and deveined); 200 g scallops (patted dry); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp butter; to taste salt and pepper

40 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

A flavourful Cajun seafood pasta packed with shrimp and scallops in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Prep

20 min

Cook

20 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Cajun seafood pasta is a vibrant and spicy dish that brings the taste of the Louisiana coast to your table. This recipe combines succulent shrimp and scallops with a creamy sauce that's jazzed up with Cajun spices. Perfect for seafood lovers and spice enthusiasts, this dish is sure to become a favourite in your household. Our version ensures a balance between heat and creaminess, making it approachable for those who prefer a milder spice level. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, it's ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Pro tip: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Prepare the seafood

Season the shrimp and scallops lightly with salt and pepper.

Cook the seafood

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure a good sear.

Sear the scallops

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the scallops for about 2 minutes per side until golden and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Pro tip: Ensure the scallops are patted dry to achieve a nice sear.

Make the sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning, stirring to combine.

Finish the sauce

Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta and seafood back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.

Serve

Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh seafood for the best flavour.
Adjust the spice level by varying the Cajun seasoning.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cajun seafood pasta?

Cajun seafood pasta is a dish made with pasta, shrimp, and scallops in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce.

How many calories are in Cajun seafood pasta?

There are approximately 550 calories per serving of Cajun seafood pasta.

Can I use different seafood in Cajun pasta?

Yes, you can substitute or add other seafood like crab or mussels to the dish.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less to suit your taste.

What is the best pasta to use for Cajun seafood pasta?

Linguine or fettuccine are great choices as they hold the sauce well, but any pasta can be used.

Can I make Cajun seafood pasta ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and seafood ahead of time, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cajun seafood pasta with a side of crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce and a fresh green salad to balance the heat. This dish can be made ahead by preparing the sauce and seafood separately, then combining them with freshly cooked pasta just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Nutrition per serving

550

Calories

35g

Protein

24g

Fat

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