This Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine is perfect for anyone who loves a kick! Juicy shrimp pair with a zesty tomato sauce and long, slurpy noodles that make every bite satisfying.
Don’t worry if you’re not a spice master. You can adjust the heat to your liking! I love serving this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a fresh finish. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine: This long, flat pasta is perfect for soaking up the sauce. If you don’t have linguine, spaghetti or fettuccine are good alternatives. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free meal.
Shrimp: I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for a satisfying bite. If shrimp isn’t available, you can substitute with cooked chicken or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor. If you need a neutral taste, canola or avocado oil can work too. Just avoid using flavored oils that might change the dish’s profile.
Canned Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes for the best sauce flavor. If these aren’t available, diced tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes can work; just cook them longer to break down.
White Wine: The wine adds depth to the sauce. You can skip it if you prefer, or use chicken or vegetable broth instead. Just keep in mind the acidity would be a bit different.
How Do You Make the Sauce Just Right?
The sauce is key to this dish! You want to ensure it’s rich and flavorful. Start by sautéing the onion until it’s soft and translucent before adding garlic. This order builds a solid foundation of flavor.
- Once you add the wine, let it reduce before stirring in the crushed tomatoes. This step helps to concentrate the flavors.
- Keep the heat on a gentle simmer. This allows the sauce to thicken and for the spices to meld beautifully.
- Don’t rush! Cooking for the suggested 10-15 minutes really develops the taste.
Trust me, taking your time with the sauce will pay off big time! You’ll end up with a deliciously hearty dish that you and your loved ones will enjoy.
Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish requires about 10-15 minutes of prep time and another 20-30 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Linguine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While the linguine is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce Base:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. After that, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Deglaze with Wine:
To enhance the flavors, pour in the white wine. Use a spatula to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes so the wine can reduce.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
6. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Once the sauce is ready, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp with the sauce, and heat through for about 2 more minutes.
7. Finish with Lemon Juice:
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the sauce and give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
8. Toss with Linguine:
Now, add the cooked linguine into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the spicy sauce.
9. Serve it Up:
Transfer the dish to plates or a large serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and some grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful meal!
Your Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine is ready to impress! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
FAQ about Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier or Milder?
Yes! Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. For a milder version, start with less than 1 teaspoon, and for an extra kick, you can add more flakes slowly while tasting the sauce as you go!
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Definitely! While linguine works great, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even a gluten-free option if needed. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package instructions.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and delicious!
