Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce: A Decadent and Flavorful Italian Delight
Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the tender bite of fresh tortellini filled with succulent shrimp, with the pungent and aromatic flavor of garlic sauce. This Italian-inspired recipe is a perfect representation of the country's rich culinary heritage, where simple yet high-quality ingredients are combined to create a dish that is both familiar and extraordinary. As a main course or as an appetizer, Shrimp Tortellini with Garlic Sauce is a sure-fire winner that will impress even the most discerning palates. With its few but essential ingredients and easy cooking instructions, this recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners looking to try their hand at a classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
* 12 oz (340g) fresh tortellini
* 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
* 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
* 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the tortellini.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Add the white wine (if using) to the skillet and cook until reduced by half, about 1 minute.
5. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
7. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations:
* To make a creamier sauce, add 1-2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese to the garlic sauce when simmering.
* For a lighter sauce, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of equal parts cream and chicken broth.
* To add some heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce when simmering.
* Use other types of pasta, such as pappardelle or fettuccine, in place of tortellini.
* Add some sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes to the garlic sauce for added flavor and nutrients.
* Substitute the shrimp with other types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels, for a different twist.