Homemade Shrimp Asparagus And Penne Pasta Recipe: A Creamy, Customizable Delight

Introduction

Bertolli's Shrimp Asparagus and Penne Pasta is a beloved frozen dish known for its creamy sauce, succulent shrimp, and crisp asparagus. It's a convenient meal that combines the comfort of pasta with the elegance of seafood. However, making it at home offers the advantage of using fresh, high-quality ingredients, reducing sodium and preservatives, and customizing the dish to your taste. This homemade version captures the essence of the original while allowing for healthier and creative twists.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting this dish at home allows you to control the ingredients, making it healthier and more flavorful. You can use fresh shrimp and asparagus, opt for whole-grain pasta, and adjust the creaminess to your liking. It's also cost-effective and can be made in large batches for the whole family.

Personal Anecdote

I remember enjoying Bertolli's Shrimp Asparagus and Penne Pasta on a busy evening, but I craved a fresher, healthier version. After experimenting with various ingredients, I developed a recipe that not only mimics the original but enhances it with brighter flavors and better nutrition. It's now a staple in my household, perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Recipe Details

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

Yield:

4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta and Protein:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Vegetables:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested

Sauce:

• 4 tbsp (55g) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour (gluten-free option available)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine (optional)
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream or whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp (5g) dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp (2g) dried dill weed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

• Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

• Prepare Shrimp: Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper.

• Cook Asparagus: Cut asparagus into 2-inch pieces. Sauté in a skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Set aside.

• Make Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add wine (or broth), whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Stir in broth, cream, Parmesan, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Simmer until smooth and creamy, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.

• Combine Ingredients: Add cooked shrimp to the sauce and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes. Toss in cooked pasta and asparagus, coating everything in the sauce.

• Serve: Garnish with lemon zest and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
• Vegan: Substitute butter with vegan alternative, use plant-based milk and cheese.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Smoky: Incorporate a bit of smoked paprika.

Pro Tips

• Freshness Matters: Use fresh asparagus for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp and asparagus should be cooked until just tender to avoid toughness.
• Adjust Creaminess: Use pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use frozen asparagus? Yes, thaw and pat dry before using.
• How do I prevent the sauce from separating? Whisk continuously when adding liquids and simmer gently.
• Can I make this ahead? Prepare components separately and combine just before serving.
• Is it freezer-friendly? Best fresh, but sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Can I scale the recipe? Double ingredients for larger batches.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a lemon wedge for extra flair.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Shrimp Asparagus and Penne Pasta offers a delicious, customizable alternative to the store-bought favorite. With its creamy sauce and fresh ingredients, it's a nutritious and satisfying meal that's sure to please. Share your creations and enjoy the taste of homemade convenience!