Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Blackened Shrimp Fettuccine?
It is a flavorful pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp seasoned with blackening spices, sautéed with garlic and jalapeños, and tossed in a sauce made from reduced white wine and chicken broth.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 16 ounces of fettuccine pasta, which holds the sauce and shrimp well.
How much shrimp do I need?
You will need 1 1/4 lbs of shrimp that has been peeled and deveined.
Is the Spicy Blackened Shrimp Fettuccine very hot?
The dish has a moderate kick from the blackening seasoning and a fresh jalapeño. You can control the heat by removing the jalapeño seeds or adjusting the amount of seasoning.
What kind of wine should I use for the sauce?
A dry white wine is recommended. Choosing a quality wine will significantly improve the overall flavor of the sauce.
Can I substitute the white wine?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the wine with additional chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
How many calories are in a serving of this pasta?
Each serving contains approximately 362.5 calories.
What is the protein content of this dish?
This recipe provides about 22.5g of protein per serving.
How much fat is in this recipe?
The dish contains approximately 8.75g of fat per serving.
What are the carbohydrate counts for this meal?
There are 40g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much blackening seasoning should I use?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of blackening seasoning, either store-bought or homemade.
How do I prepare the jalapeño?
The jalapeño should be finely chopped. Remove the seeds if you want to reduce the heat level of the dish.
What kind of chicken broth is recommended?
Low-sodium chicken broth is preferred to help control the saltiness of the final dish.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 5 minced garlic cloves for a strong, aromatic flavor.
What is the benefit of using a cast iron skillet?
A cast iron skillet provides even heat distribution and helps achieve a better sear on the blackened shrimp.
How long does it take to cook the shrimp?
Shrimp cook quickly, usually taking only 3 to 4 minutes until they become pink and opaque.
Why do I need to reduce the broth and wine mixture?
Reducing the mixture by one-third concentrates the flavors, creating a more intense and delicious sauce.
What type of butter should I use?
Unsalted butter is recommended so you can manage the sodium levels yourself.
How do I garnish the dish?
Garnish the finished pasta with one tablespoon of fresh, chopped parsley.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This dish is best accompanied by garlic bread and a light side salad.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Ensure they are completely thawed, peeled, and deveined before cooking.
Is this a southern-style recipe?
Yes, the use of blackening seasoning gives this pasta dish a distinct southern cuisine influence.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with more olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
How do I ensure the pasta is al dente?
Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions, but check it a minute or two early to ensure it still has a firm bite.
How do I prepare the garlic for this recipe?
The garlic should be finely minced before being sautéed with the jalapeños.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
While fettuccine is the standard, other long pastas like linguine or even shorter shapes like penne will work with the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is classified as an easy recipe that is perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.
Should I use extra virgin olive oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its superior flavor profile in this seafood dish.
Can I add more vegetables to this?
Certainly. Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms would be excellent additions to the sauté stage.
How do I prevent the butter from burning?
Heat the butter together with the olive oil over medium-high heat and keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't brown too quickly.