Shrimp and Feta Penne Pasta
Try this Shrimp and Feta Penne Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Shrimp and Feta Penne Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded brussel’s sprouts (approx. 8 brussels)
- 8 mini bell peppers or 1 large bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) box whole wheat penne pasta
- 10 oz. jumbo wild caught shrimp tail off, peeled & deveined
- 2 tbsp pesto sauce (i use bellino brand)
- 1 (6 oz) container feta cheese
- 2 tbsp parmesan cheese for garnishment
- Carbohydrate 0.733394587687886 g
- Cholesterol 0.458333333529886 mg
- Fat 1.27175885498329 g
- Fiber 0.185559857753185 g
- Protein 0.366888484740108 g
- Saturated Fat 0.24694457454707 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (5g)
- Sodium 34.86600440423 mg
- Sugar 0.547834729934701 g
- Trans Fat 0.0476709925238588 g
- Calories 15 calories
Step-by-step
- Place a medium, deep pot over medium heat and add the 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once heated, add the minced garlic, chopped onion, Brussels sprouts, and chopped bell peppers. Allow them to cook until they have softened.
- Once they have softened, add the canned tomatoes, remaining seasonings & pesto sauce. Mix well, cover and bring to a boil.
- Once the sauce is boiling, add the shrimp, stir, and lower to a simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- While the sauce is simmering, set the oven to broil on low and place a large pot of water over high heat and bring to a boil.
- Cook the penne pasta according to the directions on the box.
- Once cooked, combine the pasta with the sauce and mix well.
- Scoop the pasta mixture into a large prepared baking dish.
- Fold in the feta cheese, sprinkle with the chopped parsley and parmesan cheese.
- Place the dish into the oven under the broiler until the cheese has melted. Approximately 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on the dish to prevent from burning the pasta.
- Enjoy!
A Busy Mom's Delicious and Easy Shrimp and Feta Penne Pasta
Life as a mom is a whirlwind. Between school drop-offs, work deadlines, and keeping the house somewhat tidy, finding time to cook a healthy and satisfying meal can feel like an impossible task. But trust me, even amidst the chaos, you can still enjoy delicious, homemade food without spending hours in the kitchen. This Shrimp and Feta Penne Pasta is my go-to recipe when I need a quick, flavorful, and impressive meal that the whole family will love. It's packed with fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and comes together surprisingly fast.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. I love that I can prep most of the ingredients in advance, meaning dinner comes together in under 30 minutes on those hectic weeknights. The combination of juicy shrimp, creamy feta, and perfectly cooked penne pasta is pure comfort food – the kind that makes even the pickiest eaters happy. And the best part? It's adaptable. Feel free to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers. Maybe you have some leftover roasted vegetables, or you prefer a different type of cheese? Go for it! The recipe is a framework; let your creativity guide you.
Beyond the Recipe: A Weeknight Ritual
This dish isn't just about the food; it's about creating a little bit of calm amidst the chaos. While the pasta simmers, I often take a few minutes to just breathe, maybe sip some tea, and reconnect with myself. It's a small moment of self-care woven into the fabric of a busy day. This little ritual has made a huge difference in how I approach mealtimes. It's no longer a chore, but a chance to nourish myself and my family, both physically and emotionally. And the best part is, my kids often help with the simpler tasks, like chopping vegetables or stirring the sauce. It’s a wonderful way to bond while creating a delicious meal together.
More Than Just Pasta: The Power of Simple Cooking
What I've realized through years of juggling work, motherhood, and everything in between, is that simple cooking doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or nutrition. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. By focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple techniques, you can create meals that are both delicious and healthy, without feeling overwhelmed. This recipe is a testament to that philosophy. It's a celebration of simple ingredients, beautifully combined to create a meal that nourishes the body and soul.
So, the next time you're feeling pressed for time or overwhelmed by the demands of your day, remember this recipe. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos, you can still find joy in creating something delicious and meaningful for yourself and your loved ones. It's a small act of self-care, a chance to connect, and a testament to the power of simple, wholesome cooking.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the shrimp with chickpeas or white beans.
- Different pasta shape: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like.
Enjoy!
