Exquisite Seafood Linguine with Velvety Garlic Cream Sauce

Indulge in a culinary delight with this Exquisite Seafood Linguine featuring a rich and creamy garlic sauce. This elegant dish combines succulent shrimp and scallops with perfectly cooked linguine, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that’s sure to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this pasta dish elevates seafood dining to a new level.

Ingredients

8 ounces linguine

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Seafood:
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 ounces sea scallops
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Prepare the linguine according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3 minutes.
• Pour in the white wine, bringing it to a simmer. Allow it to reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

1. Cook the Seafood

• Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet. Cook until the seafood is opaque and fully cooked, approximately 4-5 minutes.
• Season the dish with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

1. Combine and Serve

• Toss the cooked linguine with the creamy garlic sauce and seafood until well combined.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus for added color and flavor.
• Different Seafood: Substitute or add other seafood like mussels or crab for a mix of flavors.
• Spice It Up: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen seafood?
   Yes, just ensure it’s thawed and drained before cooking.
2. What type of wine is best?
   A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
   A simple green salad or garlic bread complements the meal nicely.
5. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
6. How do I know when the seafood is cooked?
   The shrimp should be pink and opaque, while the scallops should be firm and opaque.
7. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
8. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Absolutely! Fettuccine or penne would also work well.
9. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
   Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can be good alternatives.
10. How long does this dish take to prepare?
    The total time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick yet elegant meal.

Conclusion

This Exquisite Seafood Linguine with Velvety Garlic Cream Sauce is a perfect way to impress your guests or treat yourself to a luxurious meal. With its rich flavors and elegant presentation, it captures the essence of fine dining right at home. Enjoy every luxurious bite!

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