Introduction

Pasta with seafood and fresh tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines the ocean’s fresh flavors with the vibrant taste of ripe tomatoes. This recipe is not only simple but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weekday dinner or a special occasion. The marriage of seafood and tomatoes offers a refreshing taste that is undeniably satisfying.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Pasta (250g)
– Mixed seafood (300g)
– Fresh tomatoes (3 large)
– Garlic (2 cloves)
– Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
– White wine (150ml)
– Fresh basil (a handful)
– Salt (to taste)
– Black pepper (to taste)
– Chili flakes (optional, to taste)

Prep Time

Approximately 15 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all necessary ingredients, including fresh seafood and tomatoes. Wash the tomatoes and chop them into small pieces. Clean and devein the seafood as needed.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Seafood

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seafood and sauté for a few minutes until it begins to cook through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes

Once the seafood is partially cooked, add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook the mixture for additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the seafood and tomato mixture. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce that coats the pasta.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional seasoning if desired.

Notes

Freshness of Ingredients

Using fresh seafood and ripe tomatoes will greatly enhance the flavor of the dish.

Pasta Cooking Time

Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should remain firm to the bite (al dente).

Adjusting Consistency

Feel free to adjust the amount of pasta water added to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.

Seasoning to Taste

Taste the sauce before serving, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a quick cooking method where ingredients are cooked in a small amount of oil or butter over relatively high heat. This technique helps to enhance the natural flavors of the seafood while keeping it tender.

Blanching

Blanching involves briefly boiling seafood or vegetables and then plunging them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This technique helps preserve the color and texture of the seafood.

Simmering

Simmering is a gentle cooking method used to cook ingredients slowly in a liquid at low temperatures. It allows the flavors of the tomatoes and seafood to meld together beautifully.

Reducing

Reducing involves cooking a sauce or liquid until it thickens and the flavors intensify. This technique is essential for creating a rich and flavorful sauce to complement the pasta.

Garnishing

Garnishing is the process of decorating a dish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or other ingredients. This not only enhances presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.

FAQ

What type of seafood can I use for this recipe?

You can use a variety of seafood such as shrimp, scallops, mussels, or calamari, depending on your preference.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Just be sure to choose quality products for the best flavor.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated. However, it’s best to store the pasta separately from the sauce to prevent it from becoming mushy.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers into the sauce while cooking.

What can I serve with pasta à la mer?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Enjoying a dish of pasta with fresh seafood and tomatoes is not only a delightful culinary experience but also a celebration of the flavors of the ocean and the garden. The combination of seafood and fresh, ripe tomatoes creates a balance of taste and texture, making this recipe a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether for a special gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, it promises to impress.

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