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Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with a dish that combines vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of spice? Introducing Spicy Shrimp Penne Delight, a culinary creation that promises to impress your family and friends alike while being quick and easy to prepare. This dish marries the satisfying bite of penne pasta with succulent shrimp, all enveloped in a rich, zesty sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Penne

Elevate your weeknight meals with Spicy Shrimp Penne Delight, a dish bursting with vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of spice. This easy-to-make recipe pairs tender penne pasta with juicy shrimp in a rich, zesty sauce that will impress your family and friends. With fresh vegetables and a sprinkle of lemon juice to brighten the flavors, this delightful dish is perfect for any occasion. Discover how to create a meal that’s as enjoyable to prepare as it is to savor.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ensuring it doesn't stick together.

    Season the Shrimp: In a medium mixing bowl, place the peeled and deveined shrimp. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp, tossing well to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for approximately 10 minutes for deeper flavor.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the onion becomes translucent.

        Incorporate Garlic and Tomatoes: Add the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly and release their juices, creating a lovely base for the dish.

          Cook the Shrimp: Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet to make space for the shrimp. Place the marinated shrimp in the opposite side of the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn bright pink and opaque, signaling they are cooked through.

            Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and generously sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture gently, allowing the cheese to melt and create a rich, creamy sauce. Add the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to your taste.

              Combine Pasta and Sauce: Carefully fold the cooked penne pasta into the creamy shrimp and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the luscious sauce.

                Garnish and Serve: Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the dish to serving plates or a large serving bowl, and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately, savoring the delightful blend of creamy spices and succulent shrimp.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4