The Story Behind the Dish
Sometimes the most extraordinary meals come from the simplest ingredients. This Creamy Harissa Shrimp Pasta is a testament to the magic of home cooking – a dish that combines the succulence of shrimp, the creaminess of eggs, and the bold kick of harissa paste. It’s a recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Shrimp: 1/2 pound (225g), peeled and deveined
- Eggs: 4-5 large
- Pasta: 1 pound (450g), preferably linguine or fettuccine
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
- Yellow Onion: 1/2, finely chopped
- Tomato: 1 large, diced
- Green Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
Spices and Sauces
- Salt: to taste
- Black Pepper: to taste
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Harissa Paste: 1/2 teaspoon
- Water: 1/2 cup (120ml)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Peel and devein the shrimp
- Mince the garlic
- Finely chop the onion
- Dice the tomato and green bell pepper
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl
- Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion
- Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant
- Cook the Vegetables
- Add diced tomato and green bell pepper
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened
- Stir in tomato paste and harissa paste
- Mix well to combine
- Add Shrimp and Liquid
- Add shrimp to the skillet
- Pour in water
- Season with salt and black pepper
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp start to turn pink
- Create the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce heat to low
- Slowly pour in beaten eggs
- Stir continuously to create a creamy sauce
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until eggs are just set but still creamy
- Serve
- If using, add cooked pasta to the skillet
- Toss to coat with the creamy sauce
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 380-420
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – they should be just pink
- Continuously stir the eggs to create a smooth, creamy sauce
- Adjust harissa paste to your spice preference
- Use a non-stick skillet for easy cooking and cleaning
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with tofu or chickpeas
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta
- Dairy-Free: Omit eggs, use coconut milk for creaminess
- Spice Level: Increase or decrease harissa paste
- Protein Swap: Use chicken or salmon instead of shrimp
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance and cook quickly.
Q2: How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat gently to prevent eggs from overcooking.
Q3: Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q4: What can I serve with this pasta? A crisp green salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly.
Q5: Is harissa paste very spicy? Harissa varies in heat. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Best enjoyed immediately
- Refrigerate leftovers for 1-2 days
- Not recommended for freezing due to egg-based sauce
- Reheat gently to maintain sauce consistency
Enjoy your Creamy Harissa Shrimp Pasta – a dish that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors!