Name: Seafood Pasta with Linguine, Shrimp, and Mussels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine; 1 lb mussels, cleaned and debearded; 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

If you’re a fan of fresh seafood and hearty pasta, then this Seafood Pasta with Linguine, Shrimp, and Mussels is the perfect recipe to indulge in. The rich flavors of shrimp and mussels combined with a creamy garlic sauce are complemented by fresh cherry tomatoes, lemon, and herbs, creating a well-balanced, restaurant-quality dish. This recipe is quick and easy, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve with crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that will impress any seafood lover.

Ingredients:

12 oz linguine
1 lb mussels, cleaned and debearded
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This should take approximately 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the linguine and set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp and Mussels

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to sizzle.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a vibrant pink color and become opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside in a bowl.
In the same skillet, add the cleaned mussels. Allow the mussels to cook for about 5 minutes, or until they all open up. Discard any mussels that do not open during cooking, as these are not safe to eat.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

To the skillet with the mussel broth, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine with the tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow the sauce to thicken slightly for 3-4 minutes.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to coat them in the creamy garlic and tomato sauce. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Seafood

Add the cooked linguine into the skillet with the sauce, shrimp, and mussels. Toss the pasta thoroughly so that it absorbs the creamy seafood sauce, making sure everything is well combined.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the seafood pasta with freshly chopped parsley and basil leaves for a burst of freshness. Optionally, serve with lemon wedges for extra zest.

COOKING Note:

When cooking the seafood, it’s important to keep an eye on the shrimp as they can become rubbery if overcooked. Mussels should be carefully cleaned and debearded before cooking to avoid any grit in your dish. If a mussel does not open after cooking, discard it, as it could be spoiled.

Serving Suggestions:

Seafood pasta is best served hot and fresh with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce. A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the dish. For a beverage, a glass of sparkling water with lemon would complete the meal.

Tips:

Add Vegetables: For a heartier version, you can add vegetables such as spinach or zucchini to the pasta.
Use Fresh Seafood: Always aim to use fresh seafood for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp and mussels can be used in a pinch—just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Adjust the Spice: The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
Double the Recipe: This dish is easy to scale up if you’re serving more people or want leftovers for the next day.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: Approx. 600 kcal
Protein: 36g
Sodium: 960mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while linguine is a classic choice, you can substitute it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even a gluten-free option if preferred.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

3. How do I clean mussels properly?

To clean mussels, rinse them under cold water, scrub the shells with a brush, and remove the “beard,” which is the fibrous strand coming out of the shell. Discard any mussels that are cracked or open before cooking.

4. Can I add more seafood to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add scallops, clams, or even calamari to enhance the seafood flavors in this dish.

5. How can I make this recipe spicy?

If you enjoy heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a drizzle of spicy chili oil to the final dish.

Conclusion:

Seafood Pasta with Linguine, Shrimp, and Mussels is a satisfying and flavorful dish that brings together the best of the ocean’s bounty with the comfort of pasta. The combination of garlic, creamy sauce, and zesty lemon adds a balance of richness and brightness, while the shrimp and mussels provide protein and a fresh, briny taste. Perfect for seafood enthusiasts or anyone looking to elevate their pasta night, this recipe is easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Enjoy this dish with your favorite company and watch it disappear from the plates!