Fiery Shrimp Fra Diavolo: A Culinary Inferno of Flavor

Shrimp Fra Diavolo, a classic Italian-American seafood dish, is a culinary explosion of flavor and spice. “Fra Diavolo” translates to “Brother Devil,” aptly named for the fiery heat that characterizes this tantalizing pasta dish. This recipe delivers a robust and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of succulent shrimp, a vibrant tomato sauce, and a generous kick of red pepper flakes creates an unforgettable taste experience. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Italian-American comfort food!

## What Makes This Shrimp Fra Diavolo So Special?

This recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about layering flavors to create a truly remarkable dish. Here’s what sets it apart:

* **Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients:** The key to any great dish is using the best ingredients available. Opt for fresh shrimp, ripe tomatoes (or high-quality canned tomatoes), fresh garlic, and good olive oil. These elements will contribute to the overall richness and depth of flavor.
* **Perfectly Cooked Shrimp:** Overcooked shrimp is rubbery and unpleasant. This recipe provides tips and tricks for achieving perfectly cooked, tender shrimp every time.
* **A Balanced Heat:** The spice level is adjustable to your preference. Whether you like a gentle warmth or a fiery inferno, you can customize the amount of red pepper flakes to achieve your desired level of heat.
* **A Rich and Flavorful Sauce:** The sauce is simmered to allow the flavors to meld together, creating a complex and satisfying base for the shrimp and pasta.
* **Easy to Customize:** Feel free to add other seafood, vegetables, or herbs to personalize the dish and make it your own.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

* **Shrimp:** 1 pound of large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen (thawed) are both acceptable. If using frozen, ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry.
* **Pasta:** 1 pound of spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta shape. While spaghetti and linguine are traditional choices, any pasta that holds sauce well will work. Consider trying bucatini for an extra-indulgent experience.
* **Olive Oil:** ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil. This will form the base of the sauce and contribute to its richness.
* **Garlic:** 6-8 cloves, minced. Freshly minced garlic is essential for its pungent and aromatic flavor.
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped. The onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
* **Crushed Red Pepper Flakes:** 1-2 teaspoons, or more to taste. This is what gives the dish its signature heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
* **Canned Tomatoes:** 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes or tomato puree. High-quality canned tomatoes are perfectly acceptable and often preferred for their consistent flavor.
* **Dry White Wine:** ½ cup (optional). Adding white wine deglazes the pan and contributes acidity and complexity to the sauce. Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc are good choices.
* **Fresh Basil:** ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous note to the dish.
* **Fresh Parsley:** ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley complements the basil and adds a touch of freshness.
* **Oregano:** 1 teaspoon dried oregano. This provides a subtle earthy flavor.
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste. Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
* **Chicken Broth or Seafood Stock:** ½ cup. This adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
* **Lemon Juice:** 1 tablespoon. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the sauce.
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons (optional). A touch of butter added at the end creates a silky smooth sauce.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create a perfect Shrimp Fra Diavolo:

**1. Prepare the Shrimp:**

* If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed. Place them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes or until thawed. Do not thaw at room temperature.
* Peel and devein the shrimp. To devein, make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and remove the dark vein. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
* Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).

**2. Cook the Pasta:**

* Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should be generously salted – think seawater. This will season the pasta from the inside out.
* Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” – the pasta should be firm but not crunchy.
* Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. This starchy water will help to thicken the sauce and create a creamy emulsion.
* Drain the pasta and set it aside.

**3. Prepare the Sauce:**

* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate the shrimp, sauce, and pasta.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
* Add the crushed red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly. This will infuse the oil with the spicy flavor.
* Pour in the white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This process is called deglazing and adds a lot of flavor to the sauce. Let the wine reduce for about 2-3 minutes, until almost evaporated.
* Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, chicken broth (or seafood stock), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the sauce simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

**4. Cook the Shrimp:**

* Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp to the sauce in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear.
* Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.

**5. Combine and Serve:**

* Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
* Add a little of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. The pasta water will help to create a creamy emulsion and bind the sauce to the pasta.
* Stir in the fresh basil, fresh parsley, and lemon juice. If using, add the butter and stir until melted and incorporated.
* Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your preference.
* Serve immediately. Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley, if desired. You can also offer grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano cheese on the side.

## Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Fra Diavolo

* **Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:** This is the most important tip! Overcooked shrimp is tough and rubbery. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque.
* **Use High-Quality Tomatoes:** The quality of the tomatoes will significantly impact the flavor of the sauce. If using canned tomatoes, opt for a reputable brand with good reviews.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** The amount of red pepper flakes is a matter of personal preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
* **Simmer the Sauce:** Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and create a richer, more complex flavor. Don’t rush this step!
* **Reserve Pasta Water:** The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon for creating a creamy and emulsified sauce. Don’t skip this step!
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh basil and parsley add a bright, herbaceous note to the dish. Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best flavor.
* **Add a Touch of Butter (Optional):** A small amount of butter added at the end creates a silky smooth sauce. This is an optional step, but it adds a touch of luxury to the dish.
* **Serve Immediately:** Shrimp Fra Diavolo is best served immediately while the shrimp is tender and the sauce is hot.

## Variations and Additions

Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking. Here are a few variations and additions to consider:

* **Add Other Seafood:** In addition to shrimp, you can add other seafood such as mussels, clams, scallops, or lobster. This will create a more decadent and flavorful dish.
* **Add Vegetables:** You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce. Sauté the vegetables along with the onion and garlic.
* **Use Different Pasta:** While spaghetti and linguine are traditional choices, you can use other pasta shapes such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.
* **Add Vodka:** For a creamier sauce, add a splash of vodka to the sauce along with the white wine. Vodka helps to emulsify the sauce and create a smoother texture.
* **Make it Creamy:** For a richer, creamier sauce, add a dollop of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese at the end. Stir until melted and incorporated.
* **Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated burst of flavor to the sauce. Add them along with the crushed tomatoes.
* **Use Cherry Tomatoes:** Instead of crushed tomatoes, you can use halved cherry tomatoes for a sweeter and more vibrant sauce.

## Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to enhance the dining experience:

* **Garlic Bread:** Serve with crusty garlic bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
* **Grilled Vegetables:** Grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Wine Pairing:** Pair with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Vermentino.
* **Dessert:** Finish the meal with a light and refreshing dessert such as lemon sorbet or a fruit tart.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftover Shrimp Fra Diavolo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp. It is generally better to reheat pasta and sauce separately if possible, adding the shrimp only once the sauce is heated through to avoid rubbery shrimp.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per Serving, based on 4 servings)

* Calories: 550-650
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 60-70g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*

## Conclusion

Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a classic Italian-American dish that is sure to impress. With its fiery flavors, succulent shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is easy to follow and customizable to your liking. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary inferno in your kitchen! Enjoy this delicious and satisfying Shrimp Fra Diavolo – Buon Appetito!

## Recipe Card

**Shrimp Fra Diavolo**

A spicy and flavorful Italian-American pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp in a vibrant tomato sauce.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 30 minutes
**Total Time:** 45 minutes
**Servings:** 4

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 pound spaghetti or linguine
* ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
* 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
* 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
* 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
* 28 ounces crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
* ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
* ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
* ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* ½ cup chicken broth or seafood stock
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons butter (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Pour in white wine (if using) and deglaze the pan. Let reduce for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Increase heat to medium-high. Add shrimp to the sauce in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
7. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to coat. Add pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
8. Stir in fresh basil, fresh parsley, and lemon juice. If using, add butter and stir until melted.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.

**Notes:**

* Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
* Don’t overcook the shrimp!
* Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.

Enjoy!