Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the aroma of flavorful spices filling the air as you prepare a delicious meal that the whole family will love. This recipe for Light Cajun Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of zesty Cajun flavors and light, refreshing ingredients. It’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings for something indulgent while still keeping things on the healthier side. Let’s dive into the world of Cajun cuisine with this easy-to-follow recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.
**Light Cajun Shrimp Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz. whole wheat linguine
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the whole wheat linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the peppers are slightly softened.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Stir to combine and let the spices toast for about a minute.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the Cajun-spiced vegetables.
7. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
8. Cook for another minute to heat everything through.
9. Serve the Light Cajun Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
This Light Cajun Shrimp Pasta is a wonderful way to infuse your dinner routine with a touch of the bayou. The blend of spices adds just the right amount of kick to the dish, while the fresh vegetables and whole wheat pasta keep it light and satisfying. It’s a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and health-conscious choices, making it a great option for any day of the week. Enjoy this meal with loved ones or savor it as a solo treat – either way, you’ll be delighted by the flavors and textures in every bite.
