Creamy Asparagus and Shrimp Pasta

Indulge in a delightful pasta dish that combines the tender sweetness of shrimp with the crisp freshness of asparagus, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This Creamy Asparagus and Shrimp Pasta is perfect for a special dinner or a comforting weeknight meal. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound asparagus
• 1/2 pound linguine
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• Coarse sea salt
• 1 pound peeled, deveined shrimp
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic (2 to 3 cloves)
• 2 tablespoons minced chives, divided
• 1/2 cup half and half
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino cheese
• 4 chive blossoms
• Freshly ground pepper

Directions:

1. Prepare the Asparagus

• Fill a sink with cold water and submerge the asparagus to dislodge any sand.
• Break off the pale, woody ends (approximately the bottom third of the stalk) and discard.
• Using a sharp paring knife, halve or quarter the asparagus into thin strips, working from base to top.

2. Cook the Linguine

• Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil.
• Generously salt the water and cook the linguine to al dente.
• Reserve some pasta cooking water for plating.

3. Cook the Asparagus

• Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large, deep-sided skillet set over medium-high heat.
• Add half the asparagus, sprinkle with sea salt, and cook until the spears go slightly limp and turn a vibrant green, about 3 to 4 minutes.
• Remove to a plate and cook the second batch in the same manner.

4. Cook the Shrimp

• Melt another tablespoon of butter in the skillet.
• Add half the shrimp, sprinkle with sea salt, and cook until the shrimp turn pink and the edges golden, about 2 minutes per side.
• Remove the cooked shrimp to a plate and cook the second batch similarly.

5. Make the Cream Sauce

• Turn the heat to low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
• Once melted, stir in the garlic and half the chives; sauté for 1 minute.
• While stirring constantly, pour in the half and half.
• Sprinkle in the Pecorino cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
• Fold in the cooked asparagus and shrimp.

6. Assemble the Dish

• Twist the linguine into shallow bowls.
• Top with the creamy sauce, using the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Finish with additional asparagus and shrimp on top.
• Garnish with chive blossom petals and a twist of freshly ground pepper.

7. Serve Immediately

• This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve immediately and savor the delicious combination of flavors.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

This Creamy Asparagus and Shrimp Pasta is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delectable meal and don’t forget to share your culinary creation on your blog!

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