Shell in Shrimp Fettuccine is a dish that transports you to the sun-soaked shores of Italy, where fresh seafood and simple, high-quality ingredients reign supreme. This Italian classic combines succulent shrimp, served in their shells, with fettuccine pasta and ripe tomatoes, all brought together with a light, flavourful dressing. The result is a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying, perfect for a special dinner or a relaxed meal with friends.
One of the standout features of Shell in Shrimp Fettuccine is the use of whole shrimp, shells and all. While some may be accustomed to peeled shrimp in pasta dishes, keeping the shells on adds an extra layer of flavour. As the shrimp cook, their shells release rich, briny juices that infuse the entire dish, creating a depth of flavour that’s simply irresistible. The experience of peeling the shrimp as you eat is part of the joy of this dish, making the meal more interactive and engaging.
The fettuccine pasta serves as the perfect base for this dish, its broad, flat shape capturing and holding onto the dressing and juices from the shrimp. Cooked to al dente, the pasta has a tender yet firm texture that pairs beautifully with the succulent shrimp. The addition of tomatoes adds a burst of freshness and acidity, balancing the richness of the seafood and the dressing.
The dressing in Shell in Shrimp Fettuccine is typically light and simple, allowing the natural flavours of the shrimp and tomatoes to shine through. A drizzle of olive oil, a hint of garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice are often all that’s needed to tie the dish together. Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, add a touch of colour and an aromatic finish, enhancing the dish without overpowering it.
This dish is a celebration of fresh, quality ingredients and the simplicity of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to try something new, Shell in Shrimp Fettuccine offers a delicious and authentic taste of Italy that’s sure to impress. Serve it with a glass of crisp white wine, and you have a meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Shell on Shrimp Fettucine
Shell in Shrimp Fettuccine is a classic Italian dish featuring succulent, shell-on shrimp, fresh tomatoes, and fettuccine pasta, all brought together with a light, aromatic dressing.
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Servings: 4 People
Calories: 207kcal
Ingredients
- 400 g fettuccine pasta
- 500 g large shrimp shell-on
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 250 g cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 large lemon juiced
- 1 tsp chilli flakes optional
- salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 bunch fresh parsley or basil chopped
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of the pasta water.400 g fettuccine pasta
- In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the shrimp, cooking them in their shells, and sauté for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through.3 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic, 500 g large shrimp
- Toss the halved cherry tomatoes into the pan with the shrimp. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.250 g cherry tomatoes
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the pan with the shrimp and tomatoes. Drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with chilli flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a light, glossy sauce.1 large lemon, 1 tsp chilli flakes, salt, freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately, allowing your guests to peel the shrimp as they enjoy the dish.1/4 bunch fresh parsley
Notes
Enjoy this Shell in Shrimp Fettuccine with a side of crusty bread and a glass of crisp white wine for a complete, satisfying meal.
Nutrition
Calories: 207kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 158mg | Sodium: 726mg | Potassium: 353mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 985IU | Vitamin C: 34mg | Calcium: 92mg | Iron: 1mg
4 comments
Added sliced red chilli instead of flakes and it was perfect.
By chance had some in the fridge so tried this. The dressing is just right and the shells make the dish something different.
Birthday surprise meal with this as the main dish. Perfect.
These are so much better than the boring prawn dishes. The shells add character and at times a challenge.