Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Spinach Chicken Shrimp Farfalle?
It is a gourmet pasta dish featuring tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and farfalle pasta in a creamy, carbonara-inspired sauce.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of farfalle pasta, also known as bow-tie pasta.
What are the main proteins in this dish?
The dish includes four boneless, skinless chicken breasts and two pounds of jumbo shrimp.
What ingredients are used to marinate the chicken?
The chicken is marinated in a mixture of extra virgin olive oil, Chardonnay wine, balsamic vinegar, and finely diced fresh rosemary.
How is the shrimp prepared?
The jumbo shrimp are peeled and then sautรฉed in butter with 6-8 pressed garlic cloves and lemon pepper seasoning.
What makes the pasta sauce creamy?
The sauce is made from a base of 3 cups of heavy whipping cream and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Which cheeses are included in the recipe?
The sauce uses 3 ounces of fresh grated Romano cheese and 1/4 cup of grated mozzarella cheese.
Is wine an ingredient in this recipe?
Yes, Chardonnay wine is used both for marinating the chicken and for adjusting the consistency of the sauce.
What type of vinegar is used?
Balsamic vinegar is used in the marinade to provide a hint of tanginess.
Is this pasta dish spicy?
It has a mild heat due to the inclusion of one teaspoon of red pepper flakes in the sauce.
Does the recipe contain pork?
Yes, it includes 1/4 cup of shredded pancetta, which is added to the sauce for a savory flavor.
What vegetables are included in the dish?
The recipe includes sun-dried tomatoes and is garnished with sliced green onions.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 6 to 8 pressed garlic cloves, specifically for seasoning the shrimp.
Can I substitute the farfalle pasta?
Yes, you can substitute farfalle with other shapes like penne or rotini if preferred.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Yes, its gourmet profile and rich ingredients make it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
How much shrimp should I buy?
The recipe calls for 2 pounds of jumbo shrimp.
What is the best way to garnish this dish?
The recommended garnish is 1/2 cup of sliced green onions.
Can I use salted butter?
While the recipe specifies unsalted butter, you can use salted butter but may want to reduce additional seasoning.
What flavor profile does the balsamic vinegar provide?
The balsamic vinegar provides a subtle tang that elevates the creaminess of the cheese sauce.
Is the chicken cooked whole or sliced?
While the ingredients list whole breasts, they are typically sliced after marinating and cooking for easier serving with pasta.
What type of seasoning is used for the shrimp?
The shrimp is seasoned with one teaspoon of lemon pepper and fresh pressed garlic.
How much heavy whipping cream is required?
You will need 3 cups of heavy whipping cream to make the luscious sauce.
What is the significance of Chardonnay in the sauce?
One cup of Chardonnay is used to adjust the sauce consistency and add depth to the flavor profile.
Can I use frozen spinach?
The title suggests spinach; if adding it, fresh baby spinach or thawed and squeezed frozen spinach can be stirred into the warm sauce.
Is this a one-pot meal?
While it involves multiple steps, it can be prepared quickly by coordinating the pasta boiling with the sauce preparation.
What kind of tomatoes are used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Is the rosemary fresh or dried?
The recipe specifies 1 teaspoon of finely diced fresh rosemary.
What type of cheese provides the main flavor?
Freshly grated Romano cheese provides the sharp, salty base for the carbonara-style sauce.
How many servings does this recipe make?
While not explicitly stated, the 12oz of pasta and 2lbs of shrimp typically serve 4 to 6 people.
Is the pancetta shredded or diced?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of shredded pancetta for the sauce.