Cold Seafood Pasta Recipe: A Refreshing Summertime Dish

Introduction

When the temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a refreshing seafood dish. This cold seafood pasta recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for a light lunch or dinner on a warm summer day. It incorporates tender seafood, al dente pasta, and a zesty dressing to create a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

For this delectable cold seafood pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) of pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
• 1 pound (450g) mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and/or calamari)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) sliced black olives
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious cold seafood pasta:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the mixed seafood and cook until just opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add the cooked seafood back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and allow the seafood to cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and black olives. Pour the seafood and all the flavorful juices from the skillet into the bowl. Toss everything together gently.
6. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the pasta and give it a final toss to mix everything evenly.
7. Refrigerate the pasta for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves and an additional drizzle of olive oil if desired.

FAQ

Can I use different types of seafood in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seafood mix to your preference. You can use just one type of seafood, such as shrimp or crab, or mix different varieties for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this cold seafood pasta a day ahead. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, you may need to freshen it up with a drizzle of olive oil and a gentle toss to ensure all the flavors are well-distributed.

Can I substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs?

While fresh herbs are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute them with dried herbs if needed. Keep in mind that the flavors may be slightly different, so adjust the quantities to taste.

Is it necessary to rinse the pasta after cooking?

Rinsing the pasta under cold water after cooking helps stop the cooking process and ensures the pasta remains firm and doesn’t become mushy. This step is essential for a cold pasta salad or dish.

Enjoy this delightful cold seafood pasta recipe as a light and refreshing meal, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. With its vibrant flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.