When you're looking for a dish that brings a little coastal magic to your dinner table, Crab and Shrimp Linguine checks all the boxes. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with tender seafood, this pasta dish feels like luxury served on a plate. Whether you're hosting a special evening or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let's bring the taste of the sea to your kitchen!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this sensational seafood pasta dish:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine (or your favorite long pasta)
- 1 tsp salt (for the pasta water)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red chili or ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Seafood:
- 1 cup cooked crab meat (lump or claw meat, picked over for shells)
- 1 cup shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails off; medium size works best)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Crab and Shrimp Linguine:
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Make sure the crab meat is shredded slightly and the shrimp are cleaned and ready to go. Set them aside while you focus on the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help bring the sauce together later.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and optional chili/red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring often, until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine to deglaze the skillet. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom – this is where the flavor hides! Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk everything until smooth, letting the cheese melt into the sauce. Taste and season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 6: Add Seafood to the Sauce
Gently fold in the shrimp and crab meat. Simmer for about 5 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the seafood – you want it tender, not rubbery.
Step 7: Bring It All Together
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy, seafood-packed sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, stir in a splash or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta to plates or a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, a little more grated Parmesan, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
Tips for Mastering This Recipe
- Fresh is Best: If possible, use fresh crab meat and shrimp for the best flavor. Frozen options work too, but make sure they’re well-thawed and patted dry.
- Balance the Sauce: Lemon and white wine bring brightness to the creamy sauce. Don’t skip them!
- Heat Level: The chili or red pepper flakes add a subtle heat. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens!), reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish. The acidity complements the creaminess and enhances the seafood flavors. If you’re not into white wine, a light rosé is another excellent choice.
Side Dish Ideas
Complete your meal with sides that won’t overpower the star of the show.
- Garlic Bread: Classic and indulgent, a crusty loaf brushed with garlic butter is perfect.
- Simple Salad: A mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Steamed Veggies: Try asparagus or tender green beans for a healthy veggie companion.
A Final Bite
Crab and Shrimp Linguine is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy, lemony sauce combined with succulent seafood feels like a celebration of fresh, bold flavors. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or the centerpiece of a special occasion, this recipe will have you coming back for more. Get cooking, and enjoy a taste of the sea right at your table!
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