Introduction
Discover a sophisticated and flavorful dish: spaghetti with bell pepper cream, shrimp, and smoked beef. This unique recipe brings together a blend of rich, delicate flavors. Perfect for a refined dinner or a weekend meal, this dish combines creamy textures with smoky and maritime accents to create a culinary masterpiece.
The sweetness of roasted bell peppers complements the smoky, savory taste of beef, while the shrimp adds a touch of freshness and lightness. Easy to prepare yet strikingly elegant, this dish is perfect for impressing your guests or giving a gourmet twist to your pasta routine.
Ingredients
Serves 4:
400 g (14 oz) spaghetti
200 g (7 oz) peeled shrimp (raw or cooked)
100 g (3.5 oz) smoked beef, cut into thin strips
2 red bell peppers
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
200 ml (¾ cup) heavy cream (regular or light)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sweet paprika
A pinch of Espelette pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Grated Parmesan (optional)
Substitution Suggestions:
Smoked beef: Substitute with smoked turkey or chicken ham for a lighter flavor.
Heavy cream: Swap with coconut milk for a touch of exotic flavor.
Red bell peppers: Yellow or orange bell peppers work well for a milder, sweeter taste.
Spaghetti: Use tagliatelle or linguine for a similar texture, or penne for a heartier feel.
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Pepper Cream
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Wash the red bell peppers and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even charring.
Once cooked, place the peppers in a plastic bag or cover them with a clean kitchen towel for 10 minutes. This makes peeling them easier.
Remove the skin, seeds, and stems from the peppers. Blend their flesh with 100 ml (½ cup) of heavy cream until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of cooking water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp and Smoked Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes if raw (or until they turn pink). If already cooked, simply heat them through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, briefly sauté the smoked beef strips for 30 seconds to 1 minute to warm them up. Set aside as well.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the skillet, pour the bell pepper cream mixture. Add the remaining 100 ml (½ cup) of heavy cream, paprika, and Espelette pepper (if using).
Stir well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.
Gently mix in the shrimp and smoked beef. Let everything warm together for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Divide the pasta into serving plates or bowls.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, tagliatelle or linguine are great alternatives. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni also works well for a more rustic presentation.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the smoked beef with grilled mushrooms and the shrimp with tofu or sautéed zucchini slices for a delicious vegetarian version.
3. Can I prepare the bell pepper cream in advance?
Absolutely! The bell pepper cream can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
The sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months, but it’s best to cook the pasta and add the shrimp and smoked beef fresh to maintain their texture and flavor.
5. What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
Spinach, green peas, or broccoli make great additions for a more colorful and nutrient-packed meal.
Conclusion
Spaghetti with bell pepper cream, shrimp, and smoked beef is a beautifully balanced dish that combines rich and smoky flavors with creamy textures and a touch of sweetness from the bell peppers. Its versatility allows you to tailor it to your taste, making it an excellent choice for both casual family dinners and elegant entertaining.
This recipe is simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Try it today and indulge in a bowl of pure culinary delight that’s sure to become a staple in your repertoire.