Zesty Citrus Shrimp Pasta
Experience the vibrant flavors of Asia in this delightful Zesty Citrus Shrimp Pasta. Tender medium shrimp are sautéed with fragrant ginger and garlic, then tossed with al dente angel hair pasta. The dish is elevated with a savory soy sauce and rice wine vinegar dressing, complemented by the crunch of water chestnuts and the freshness of green onions. A squeeze of lime adds a zesty finish, while dry roasted peanuts provide the perfect crunch. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
medium shrimp
1 lb (peeled & deveined)
angel hair pasta
9 ounces (cooked & drained)
low sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup
rice wine vinegar
1/4 cup
sesame oil
2 teaspoons
green onions
6 (chopped)
water chestnuts
8 ounces (drained)
dried cilantro
1 teaspoon
bottled gingerroot
2 tablespoons (minced)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
olive oil
1 teaspoon
lime juice
2 tablespoons
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon
dry roasted peanuts
2 tablespoons
Instructions
1
Cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside in a large bowl.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and sesame oil. Drizzle this mixture over the warm pasta and gently toss to coat evenly.
3
Add the chopped green onions, drained water chestnuts, and dried cilantro to the pasta and mix well.
4
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes without browning.
5
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, lime juice, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
6
Transfer the shrimp mixture into the pasta bowl and toss well to combine all ingredients.
7
To serve, divide the pasta among plates or bowls and top with dry roasted peanuts for added crunch.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Citrus Shrimp Pasta?
It is a vibrant Asian-inspired dish featuring sautéed shrimp, angel hair pasta, and a savory soy-sesame dressing.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 9 ounces of angel hair pasta, cooked and drained.
Can I substitute the angel hair pasta?
Yes, you can use other thin pastas like spaghetti or linguine, though cooking times will vary.
How much shrimp is required?
You will need 1 pound of medium shrimp for this dish.
How should the shrimp be prepared?
The shrimp should be peeled and deveined before being sautéed.
What ingredients are in the dressing?
The dressing consists of low sodium soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and sesame oil.
How do I prepare the green onions?
The recipe requires 6 green onions that should be chopped and mixed into the pasta.
What preparation do the water chestnuts need?
You should use 8 ounces of water chestnuts and ensure they are fully drained.
Is cilantro used in this recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of dried cilantro is added to the pasta mixture.
What kind of ginger is recommended?
The recipe suggests 2 tablespoons of minced bottled gingerroot for convenience and flavor.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
You will need 2 minced garlic cloves.
What oil is used for sautéing the shrimp?
A small amount (1 teaspoon) of olive oil is used to sauté the aromatics and shrimp.
When is the lime juice added?
The lime juice is added to the skillet along with the shrimp and black pepper during the cooking process.
How long does it take to cook the shrimp?
The shrimp typically take about 3 to 5 minutes to cook until they turn pink.
What is the purpose of the peanuts?
Dry roasted peanuts are used as a topping to provide a crunchy texture to the finished dish.
How much black pepper should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
When should I add the dressing to the pasta?
Drizzle the soy and vinegar mixture over the pasta while it is still warm to help it absorb the flavors.
Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low sodium?
Yes, but you may want to adjust the amount to avoid making the dish too salty.
How do I sauté the ginger and garlic?
Sauté them in olive oil for 1 to 2 minutes over medium heat, being careful not to brown them.
Should the pasta be rinsed after cooking?
The recipe suggests just draining the pasta and placing it in a bowl to keep it warm for the dressing.
How much lime juice is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of lime juice.
Is sesame oil included in the sauce?
Yes, 2 teaspoons of sesame oil are whisked into the soy sauce and vinegar dressing.
What texture do water chestnuts provide?
Water chestnuts add a distinct, refreshing crunch that complements the soft pasta and tender shrimp.
Can I make this dish spicy?
While the original recipe is not spicy, you could add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the dressing for heat.
Is this a main course or a side dish?
Given the protein and pasta content, it is primarily intended as a main course meal.
Can I use fresh cilantro instead of dried?
Yes, fresh cilantro can be used; generally, you would use about a tablespoon of fresh cilantro to replace the teaspoon of dried.
How many people does this recipe serve?
While not explicitly stated, 1 lb of shrimp and 9 oz of pasta typically serves 3 to 4 people.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, as long as they are fully thawed and patted dry before you begin the sautéing process.
What is the best way to serve this pasta?
Serve it in individual bowls, ensuring each portion is topped with the shrimp mixture and a sprinkle of peanuts.
How much rice wine vinegar is needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of rice wine vinegar for the dressing.