Espelette Pepper Pasta with Shrimp and Feta

Main Course Quick & Easy

Espelette Pepper Pasta with Shrimp and Feta

★★★★★ 4.5 (672)

This vibrant pasta dish combines the smoky heat of Espelette pepper with succulent shrimp and creamy feta for a flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels both special and satisfying.

◷ 25 min Total Time

♜ 4 Servings

▥ Easy Difficulty

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Classic Roast Chicken

Ingredients

4 servings

5 ounces spaghetti 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoons diced red onion 6 ounces frozen, cooked shrimp 1 teaspoon Espelette pepper powder, or to taste 5 ounces crumbled feta cheese 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint 2 teaspoons chopped fresh chives

Instructions

Cook Spaghetti Al Dente

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it until it’s just tender but still has a bit of bite, about 11 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Saut onion and shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat some olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Toss in the onion and cook it until it softens, which should take around 2 minutes. Then, add the frozen shrimp along with the Espelette pepper. Turn the heat down to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp have thawed and started to cook through—about 3 to 5 minutes.

Toss Pasta with Feta

Now, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and sprinkle the feta cheese on top. Turn the heat up to medium-high and gently toss everything together. The feta will start to melt and create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp nicely.

Stir in Fresh Herbs

Once the cheese has melted, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the fresh parsley, mint, and chives until they’re well mixed in. Serve the pasta right away, dividing it between two plates. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the smoky heat of Espelette pepper with tender shrimp and creamy feta, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough for guests. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a delightful meal that feels both comforting and special.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to add freshness and crunch. A slice of crusty bread works well to soak up any leftover sauce. Pair with a chilled white wine or a light rosé to complement the spice and feta.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta moist. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the shrimp and cheese may change.