If you're looking for a pasta dish that combines creamy goodness with fresh seafood, this recipe is for you. Seafood Pasta has become a beloved family favorite in my house. After a long week, I wanted to prepare something special yet quick, allowing me to enjoy the weekend without spending hours in the kitchen.
What I love about this dish is the balance of flavors and textures. It's rich without being heavy, featuring tender linguini, succulent scallops, and juicy shrimp, all coated in a light creamy sauce. Perfect for a casual dinner or impressing guests, this recipe fits the bill for any occasion.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Seafood Flavor: Using scallops and shrimp adds a satisfying taste that elevates the dish.
- Lightened Creamy Sauce: Enjoy the richness of cream without the guilt, thanks to a balance of ingredients.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily adjust the seafood or herbs to match your personal preferences.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves several people, making it great for family dinners or hosting friends.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 350 g linguini – The base pasta that holds all the creamy goodness.
- 400 g large scallops – Adds a rich and buttery flavor to the dish.
- 300 g large shrimp – Provides a sweet and juicy texture.
- 4 tablespoons grape seed oil – A neutral oil perfect for pan frying seafood.
- Salt and pepper – Enhances the flavors of the seafood and pasta.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness to the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons flour – Helps to thicken the sauce for a creamy consistency.
- 2 cups milk – Creates the base of the sauce, providing creaminess without too much fat.
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a distinct flavor and enriches the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons fresh herbs – A mix of basil, thyme, and rosemary brings freshness and aroma.
How to Make Creamy Seafood Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Linguini
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the linguini. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, then drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the scallops for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove scallops from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are no longer translucent. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Remove the shrimp and place them with the scallops.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Discard excess oil from the pan and wipe it clean. Add 2 tablespoons of oil and the butter, melting it over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, then slowly add the milk and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked scallops, shrimp, and linguini to the sauce. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.
Pro Tips from My Kitchen
✓ Fresh Seafood – Always choose fresh seafood when possible for the best flavor and texture. Look for scallops that have a sweet, slightly briny scent.
✓ Properly Cooked Pasta – Make sure not to overcook your pasta. Al dente will provide the best bite and will hold up well when mixed with the creamy sauce.
✓ Save Pasta Water – Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining your linguini. This starch-rich water can help adjust the sauce's consistency if it becomes too thick.
✓ Herb Variations – Feel free to substitute the fresh herbs with dried ones if necessary. Just remember that dried herbs have a stronger flavor, so use less.
✓ Serving Size – If you’re cooking for fewer people, simply cut the recipe in half. This dish still tastes delightful when made in smaller quantities.
Serving Ideas and Variations
- Pair with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Consider substituting the seafood with chicken if you prefer poultry over seafood.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Seafood Pasta
Yes, you can replace scallops and shrimp with chicken or even mixed vegetables for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Scallops are done when they are firm, opaque, and have a golden crust on the outside. They typically cook in about 2 minutes on each side.
While this pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and seafood ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then reheat gently before combining with linguini.
If the sauce becomes too thick, simply stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. This will help loosen it up without losing flavor.
This pasta pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light salad. Garlic bread also complements the meal nicely for added texture.
Creamy Seafood Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 350 g linguini
- 400 g large scallops
- 300 g large shrimp
- 4 tablespoons grape seed oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons fresh herbs
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the linguini. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, then drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for later.
- Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the scallops for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove scallops from the pan and set them aside.
- In the same pan, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are no longer translucent. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Remove the shrimp and place them with the scallops.
- Discard excess oil from the pan and wipe it clean. Add 2 tablespoons of oil and the butter, melting it over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux, then slowly add the milk and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens.
- Add the cooked scallops, shrimp, and linguini to the sauce. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture.
- Reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
- Feel free to substitute the fresh herbs with dried ones if necessary.
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