Dive Into Flavor: Creamy Seafood Noodles You'll Absolutely Love

 

Craving a taste of the ocean with a comforting twist? Look no further! This creamy seafood noodle recipe is surprisingly easy to make and delivers a burst of fresh flavor in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight treat or an elegant weekend meal, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

 

Here's what you'll need to create this deliciousness:

 

Yields: 4 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

 

Ingredients:

 

1 pound linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite long pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams, etc.), fresh or frozen and thawed

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended for flavor)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives

1 lemon, cut into wedges

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.  

Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!).

Cook the Seafood: Add the mixed seafood to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, scallops are lightly browned, and mussels/clams have opened (discard any that remain closed). Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it will become rubbery.

Deglaze the Pan (Optional): If using, pour the white wine into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off slightly.

Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.

Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley or chives. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.

Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the seafood and sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serve Immediately: Divide the creamy seafood noodles among bowls. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a fresh lemon wedge on the side. Encourage everyone to squeeze a bit of lemon juice over their dish for a bright finish.

Tips and Variations:

 

Seafood Choices: Feel free to customize the seafood based on your preferences and what's available. Lobster, crab, or even flaked cooked fish would be delicious additions.

Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet along with the seafood for extra nutrients and color.

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking, or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder dish.

Herb Options: Other fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme would also work well in this recipe.

Make it Lighter: For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.

Enjoy this delectable and satisfying Creamy Seafood Noodles! It's a taste of the ocean that will leave you wanting more.