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

Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 1 lb steak 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
 

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Season steak with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, cook steak for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  • Season shrimp with remaining Cajun seasoning. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add red bell pepper and cook for 5 minutes until tender.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  • Add pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Return steak and shrimp to the skillet and mix until heated through.
  • Garnish with parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!

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!

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