Squid ink pasta is a stunning dish, both visually and in taste. The jet-black color of the pasta adds an exotic flair to your meal, while the ink imparts a briny, slightly saline flavor that perfectly complements seafood. This pasta is not only a feast for the eyes but also delivers an unforgettable gourmet experience, making it a showstopper at any dinner table. The combination of fresh seafood, garlic, and a light sauce balances the intense pasta flavor, creating an elevated dining experience.
Squid ink pasta is a visually striking, luxurious dish packed with ocean flavors. This recipe features perfectly cooked squid ink pasta paired with fresh seafood like shrimp and scallops, garlic, and white wine sauce. The briny undertones of the squid ink create a complex, savory base, complemented by the tender seafood and rich sauce. This meal is sure to impress both in flavor and presentation, ideal for a special occasion or when you want to enjoy an indulgent homemade pasta dish.
Squid Ink Pasta with Garlic and Seafood
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large sauté pan for the sauce
- Strainer
- Tongs
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340g squid ink pasta (store-bought or homemade)
- 12 large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 sea scallops
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup seafood or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the squid ink pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp and scallops with salt and pepper. Add the scallops to the pan, searing them for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside. Add the shrimp to the same pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and cooked through. Set aside with the scallops.
- In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Then add the cherry tomatoes, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the seafood. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes. Add the broth and cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors. If the sauce seems too thick, you can thin it out with some of the reserved pasta water.
- Toss the cooked squid ink pasta into the sauce, coating it evenly. Add the seared shrimp and scallops back into the pan, gently mixing to combine all the ingredients. Let everything warm through for 1-2 minutes.
- Divide the pasta among four plates. Garnish with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with lemon wedges on the side and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Homemade Squid Ink Pasta: If you're feeling adventurous, making your own squid ink pasta adds a personal touch to the recipe. All you need is flour, eggs, and squid ink (available at specialty stores), and the process is similar to making regular fresh pasta.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the seafood flavors and cutting through the richness of the sauce.
- Leftovers: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of extra broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Nutrition (per serving):
– Calories: 480
– Protein: 35g
– Fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sodium: 720mg
– Cholesterol: 190mg
This squid ink pasta recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that elevates your standard pasta dinner into something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for a special event or simply treating yourself, this visually striking and deliciously satisfying meal will leave a lasting impression. The squid ink provides depth to the dish, while the combination of fresh seafood and a delicate sauce ties everything together into a perfect balance of flavors.
Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and tag @cookwithexperts on Instagram and hashtag it #cookwithexperts.