Easy Spicy Pasta Recipes Your Family Will Love

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As a busy parent, I’m always looking for ways to make our meals both nutritious and delicious.

One of the easiest ways to do this is by incorporating more vegetables into our everyday dishes. Not only do veggies add a burst of colour and flavour, but they also pack a nutritional punch that’s essential for our health. Today, I’m excited to share two of my favourite recipes that make it simple to include more veggies in our diet.

There’s something magical about pasta. It’s versatile, comforting, and brings everyone to the table with a smile. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a quick meal, easy pasta recipes can be a lifesaver.

One of my family’s favourites is a simple spaghetti aglio e olio. With just garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, it’s ready in minutes and always a hit. Pair it with a side salad, and dinner is served.

For a heartier option, try a creamy chicken Alfredo. The rich sauce made with cream and Parmesan cheese is pure comfort food. Toss in some broccoli or peas for a bit of green, and you’ve got a balanced meal.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more colourful, a pasta primavera is perfect. Fresh veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini sautéed in olive oil and tossed with penne make for a vibrant dish. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies for the kids.

And let’s not forget about baked ziti. It’s like lasagna’s easier cousin – layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese baked to perfection. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the next day.

For seafood lovers, shrimp scampi is a must-try. The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter with tender shrimp over linguine is simply divine. It’s fancy enough for a special occasion but easy enough for a weeknight.

Pasta nights are always a hit in our house. They’re quick, and delicious, and there’s something for everyone. Plus, the best part is watching everyone gather around the table, enjoying a meal together.

So, next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, remember that a simple pasta dish can bring so much joy and satisfaction.

Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 lb steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra spice

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook the fettuccine or penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season and Cook the Steak:
   • Season the steak pieces with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the steak pieces and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. Season and Cook the Shrimp:
   • Season the shrimp with the remaining Cajun seasoning.
   • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes, until tender.
5. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
   • Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine with the garlic and bell pepper.
   • Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like extra spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
6. Combine Everything:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
   • Add the cooked steak and shrimp back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
7. Tips:
   • For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of heavy cream and half-and-half or milk.
   • If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.
   • You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
   • Enjoy your delicious Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta! This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a comforting meal to share with family and friends.

Easy Spicy Shrimp and Bell Pepper Pasta Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 oz farfalle or pasta of your choice
• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook the fettuccine or your preferred pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the shrimp, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are tender.
4. Combine Everything:
   • Reduce the heat to medium and add the Alfredo sauce to the skillet with the bell peppers. Stir to combine.
   • Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated with the sauce.
5. Serve:
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
   • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Spicy Shrimp and Bell Pepper Pasta!