There’s something about grilled jumbo shrimp combined with the comforting twirls of cavatappi pasta that creates a meal that is both elegant and satisfying. This recipe for Grilled Jumbo Shrimp Cavatappi Pasta is perfect for a cozy night in or a special gathering with friends and family. The succulent shrimp marry beautifully with the hearty pasta, creating a dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delightful meal.
**Grilled Jumbo Shrimp Cavatappi Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz cavatappi pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by cooking the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping warm.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be used as a marinade for the shrimp.
3. Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with a paper towel. Place the shrimp in a bowl and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 15-20 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors.
4. Once the shrimp have marinated, thread them onto skewers. This will make grilling them easier and prevent them from falling through the grates.
5. Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left on the grill for too long.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cavatappi pasta with the grilled shrimp. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and toss in the chopped parsley. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the shrimp and pasta are well combined.
7. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. The flavors should be bright and vibrant, with a good balance of acidity from the lemon and freshness from the parsley.
8. To serve, divide the Grilled Jumbo Shrimp Cavatappi Pasta among plates and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory goodness. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice for a finishing touch.
Enjoy this delightful dish with a glass of crisp white wine and good company. The smoky flavors from the grilled shrimp paired with the tender cavatappi pasta make this a meal that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a delicious plate of Grilled Jumbo Shrimp Cavatappi Pasta!
