Spicy Pasta Aglio Olio With Shrimp
Let’s elevate a classic Italian favorite with a Thai twist into this Spicy Shrimp and Pasta Aglio Olio. This bold and vibrant recipe features tender shrimp, perfectly al dente pasta, and the fiery kick of fresh Thai chilies. Infused with the savory umami of my Thaimee All-Purpose Sauce, it’s a delicious fusion of Italian simplicity and Thai-inspired flavors.
I first created this dish for my family, and they couldn’t stop raving about it. Now, I’m sharing it with you, hoping it becomes just as much of a favorite for your loved ones. Let’s get cooking and turn an ordinary day into something special!
Serves: 2
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
200g (7 oz) pasta of your choice (spaghetti pictured)
2 tbsp olive oil, or to taste
6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
2–3 fresh Thai chilies, bruised and chopped (adjust to taste)**
200g (7 oz) shrimp (21–25 count), cleaned, peeled, and deveined***
2 tbsp Thaimee All-Purpose Sauce, or to taste****
1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
For Garnish:
Chopped cilantro or Thai basil*****
1 tbsp Parmesan cheese (optional, for fusion flair)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente, following package instructions.
Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Prepare the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden and aromatic, about 1–2 minutes.
Add the Thai chilies and cook for an additional 30 seconds to infuse the oil with their heat and aroma.
Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Lightly season with salt and black pepper.
Combine Everything:
Reduce the heat and stir in Thaimee All-Purpose Sauce, mixing well to coat the shrimp and garlic.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss thoroughly until the sauce evenly coats the pasta.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Garnish and Serve:
Divide the pasta between two plates. Garnish with chopped cilantro or Thai basil.
For a fusion twist, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful creation!
Recipe Notes
Pasta Options: Substitute spaghetti with other pasta types like angel hair, fettuccine, or penne to suit your preference.
Chili Substitution: If fresh Thai chilies aren’t available, dried whole chilies are a great alternative. Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
Shrimp Size: While 21–25 count shrimp is ideal, feel free to use any size you prefer.
Thaimee All-Purpose Sauce: This versatile sauce is your kitchen’s secret weapon, perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes and cooking techniques.
Herb Garnish: Cilantro is a traditional Thai garnish, but parsley, Thai basil, or your favorite fresh herbs work just as well.
This recipe is a perfect blend of Italian and Thai flavors, making it a versatile and exciting dish to enjoy with family or friends.
