Key West Penne: A Taste of the Islands in Every Bite
Key West Penne is a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that captures the essence of the Florida Keys. It’s a delightful combination of creamy sauce, succulent seafood (often shrimp and scallops), sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a hint of spice, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make at home. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Key West with this recipe!
## What Makes Key West Penne Special?
Several factors contribute to the unique appeal of Key West Penne:
* **Creamy and Flavorful Sauce:** The base of the sauce is usually a combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, creating a rich and decadent foundation. Some recipes also incorporate white wine or chicken broth for added depth of flavor.
* **Seafood Medley:** Shrimp and scallops are the most common seafood components, adding a briny sweetness that complements the creamy sauce. Other seafood options like lobster, crab, or even grilled chicken can also be included to customize the dish to your preferences.
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** These provide a burst of intense, chewy sweetness that balances the richness of the cream sauce and adds a delightful Mediterranean touch.
* **Spinach:** This leafy green adds a touch of freshness, color, and nutritional value to the dish. Other greens like kale or arugula can also be used.
* **Hint of Spice:** A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce adds a subtle kick that elevates the overall flavor profile without being overpowering. This subtle heat balances the richness of the sauce and the sweetness of the seafood.
* **Penne Pasta:** The ridged shape of penne pasta is ideal for capturing the creamy sauce and ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
## Key West Penne Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe provides a detailed guide to creating a delicious Key West Penne dish at home. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and quantities to suit your own preferences.
**Yields:** 4-6 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound penne pasta
* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 pound sea scallops
* 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* 5 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
* Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
**Equipment:**
* Large pot
* Large skillet or sauté pan
* Colander
**Instructions:**
**1. Cook the Pasta:**
* Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
* Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
* Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
* Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
**2. Prepare the Seafood:**
* Pat the shrimp and scallops dry with paper towels. This will help them sear properly and develop a nice color.
* Season the seafood with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).
**3. Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:**
* Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
* Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and release their flavor.
**4. Cook the Seafood:**
* Increase the heat to medium-high.
* Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the seafood to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the seafood in batches.
* Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
* Cook the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
* Remove the seafood from the skillet and set aside.
**5. Make the Sauce:**
* Reduce the heat to medium.
* If using, pour the white wine into the skillet and deglaze the pan by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the wine has reduced slightly.
* Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
* Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
* Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
**6. Combine and Serve:**
* Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
* If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
* Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and scallops.
* Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges (optional).
## Tips for Perfect Key West Penne
* **Don’t Overcook the Seafood:** Overcooked shrimp and scallops can become rubbery and tough. Cook them just until they are cooked through and slightly firm to the touch.
* **Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of the ingredients will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Use fresh seafood, good quality Parmesan cheese, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes.
* **Adjust the Spice Level to Your Liking:** If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Cooking the Seafood:** Overcrowding the pan will cause the seafood to steam instead of sear, resulting in a less flavorful and less appealing dish. Cook the seafood in batches if necessary.
* **Reserve Pasta Water:** The starchy pasta water helps to thicken the sauce and create a creamy emulsion. Don’t skip this step!
* **Serve Immediately:** Key West Penne is best served immediately while the sauce is still creamy and the seafood is hot.
## Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about Key West Penne is its versatility. Here are a few ideas for variations and customizations:
* **Add Different Seafood:** Experiment with different types of seafood, such as lobster, crab, clams, or mussels. You can also use a combination of different seafood.
* **Include Chicken or Sausage:** If you’re not a fan of seafood, you can substitute it with grilled chicken or Italian sausage. Cook the chicken or sausage before adding it to the sauce.
* **Add Vegetables:** Other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus, can be added to the dish for extra flavor and nutrients. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the sauce.
* **Use Different Types of Pasta:** While penne is the traditional choice, you can also use other types of pasta, such as fettuccine, linguine, or rigatoni.
* **Make it Dairy-Free:** For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
* **Add a Touch of Acidity:** A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar can brighten the flavors of the dish and add a touch of acidity.
## Serving Suggestions
Key West Penne is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be served with a side salad or crusty bread. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **Serve with a Simple Green Salad:** A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing will complement the richness of the pasta dish.
* **Serve with Crusty Bread:** Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Serve with Garlic Bread:** Garlic bread adds another layer of flavor and is always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Garnish with Fresh Herbs:** Fresh parsley, basil, or chives can be used to garnish the dish and add a pop of color and flavor.
* **Serve with Lemon Wedges:** Lemon wedges can be squeezed over the dish to add a touch of acidity.
## Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover Key West Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave the pasta until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to prevent it from drying out. It’s best to consume leftover seafood as soon as possible.
## Key West Penne: A Culinary Escape
Key West Penne is more than just a pasta dish; it’s a culinary escape to the sun-kissed shores of the Florida Keys. With its creamy sauce, succulent seafood, and vibrant flavors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and get ready to experience the taste of paradise in every bite! Enjoy!
## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
* Calories: 600-800
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 30-40g
* Carbohydrates: 60-70g
*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.*
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use frozen seafood?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking and pat it dry with paper towels.
**Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?**
A: It’s best to serve Key West Penne immediately after cooking. However, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the cooked pasta and seafood just before serving.
**Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?**
A: While Parmesan cheese is the traditional choice, you can also use other hard cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
**Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?**
A: Yes, you can add vegetables to this dish. Sauté them before adding them to the sauce.
**Q: How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?**
A: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
**Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?**
A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free penne pasta.
**Q: What wine pairs well with Key West Penne?**
A: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs well with Key West Penne.
**Q: Can I add a different type of spice?**
A: Yes. Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, or a dash of cayenne pepper can add some extra zest.
**Q: Can I grill the shrimp and scallops?**
A: Yes, grilling the shrimp and scallops can add a smoky flavor. Just be sure not to overcook them.
**Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of white wine?**
A: Yes, vegetable broth can be used. Chicken broth is another alternative.