Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary pasta into an extraordinary dining experience with Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta. This vibrant, flavor-packed dish represents a perfect fusion of bold Asian-inspired flavors and comforting pasta cuisine, promising a meal that’s both exciting and satisfying.
Imagine succulent shrimp, perfectly seasoned and seared to a delicate pink, nestled among strands of pasta and draped in a creamy, tantalizing sauce that delivers an irresistible balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. The signature “bang bang” sauce – a harmonious blend of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and a hint of sriracha – elevates this dish from simple weeknight dinner to a restaurant-quality masterpiece.
What makes this recipe truly special is its remarkable simplicity and speed. In just about 20 minutes, home cooks can create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. The combination of paprika-seasoned shrimp, al dente pasta, and the signature creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate.
Perfect for busy families, date nights, or when you’re craving something extraordinary, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta offers a delightful culinary experience that proves gourmet cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a testament to how a few carefully chosen ingredients can transform a simple meal into a memorable dining adventure.
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
• 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
For the Pasta:
• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:
• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
1. In a bowl, mix cornstarch (or flour), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the shrimp in the mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
3. Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the shrimp in batches until golden and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
2. Adjust seasoning to your taste. Set aside.
3. Cook the Pasta:
1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the garlic, then toss in the cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine:
1. Add the cooked shrimp to the pasta and drizzle in the Bang Bang sauce.
2. Toss everything together until the shrimp and pasta are evenly coated in the sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve:
1. Transfer to serving plates or bowls.
2. Top with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro for garnish.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!
This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for shrimp and pasta lovers!