If you’re craving a dish that feels both indulgent and effortlessly elegant, this Shrimp Pasta in a Rosé Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, succulent shrimp nestled in a velvety, pink-hued sauce that’s creamy yet bright, perfectly coating al dente fettuccine. The beautiful balance of fresh basil, garlic, and a splash of white wine makes this pasta not only stunning to look at but downright addictive to eat. This recipe will quickly become your go-to for those nights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are deceptively simple, but each one is essential to create the creamy, rich texture and vibrant taste that make this dish shine. From fresh shrimp to the fragrant basil, every component plays a vital role in building the perfect profile for this shrimp pasta in a rosé sauce recipe.
- 1/2 pound shrimp: Large shrimp work best for tenderness and a perfect bite every time.
- 4 ounces uncooked fettuccine: Wide noodles hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics evenly.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enhances depth of flavor and gives the sauce a silky finish.
- 1 shallot: Offers a mild, sweet onion flavor that melds into the sauce flawlessly.
- 1/3 cup dry white wine: Brightens the dish with subtle acidity and complexity.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Essential for that warm, inviting aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and helps emulsify the sauce.
- 1 (14 fluid ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Provides natural sweetness and vibrant color to the sauce.
- Pinch of Italian seasoning: Brings an herby background note enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates the luscious, creamy consistency that defines the rosé sauce.
- 10 large leaves basil (torn): Fresh basil adds aromatic bursts of freshness and color.
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated or shaved, to taste): The perfect finishing touch for that salty, umami-rich kick.
How to Make Shrimp Pasta in a Rosé Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
If your shrimp are frozen, gently run them under cool water until just thawed to preserve their delicate texture. Once thawed, peel and devein them carefully. This step ensures your shrimp are pristine and ready to absorb all the flavors from the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions. Cooking the pasta to al dente is key because it will continue to absorb flavors when tossed with the sauce later. Drain well once done, but keep a little pasta water aside—it can be handy to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Finely chop the shallot for that subtle sweetness. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil, then add the shallot. Cooking it gently for about five minutes releases its natural sweetness which forms the flavor base for this sauce.
Step 4: Build the Rosé Sauce
Pour in the white wine and let it reduce slightly before stirring in minced garlic, Dijon mustard, diced tomatoes with their juices, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Let these simmer together for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes’ acidity to soften, setting the stage for that creamy twist.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Simmer
Stir in the heavy cream along with salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This slow simmer helps thicken the sauce while marrying the creamy, tomato, and wine components into a harmonious rosé sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
Step 6: Cook the Shrimp and Finish
Add the shrimp and torn basil leaves to the sauce, cooking for an additional five minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and tender. Finally, toss in the drained fettuccine, ensuring every noodle is luxuriously coated. Serve immediately with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated or shaved Parmesan cheese for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Serve Shrimp Pasta in a Rosé Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves and shaved Parmesan aren’t just for taste—they brighten the dish with lively color and texture contrast. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a lovely kick and depth, making the dish instantly more vibrant and personalized.
Side Dishes
Light and fresh side salads with lemon vinaigrette or a crisp garlic bread complement the rich rosé sauce wonderfully. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or a simple arugula salad offer a pleasant crunch and balance to the creamy pasta, keeping the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or a casual date night, serve this shrimp pasta in shallow bowls with a twist of lemon on the side for added brightness. Garnish with a sprig of basil and a few Parmesan shavings right before serving to impress your guests visually and gastronomically. A rustic wooden board with a small bowl of extra sauce on the side invites everyone to dive in and savor every last bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The flavors meld even more after resting overnight, but try to enjoy within two days for the best texture and taste. Reheating gently will keep the shrimp tender and the sauce creamy.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked rosé sauce (without pasta) in a separate container for up to two months. When ready to use, thaw overnight and gently reheat. Add freshly cooked pasta to avoid sogginess and maintain maximum flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the sauce and shrimp on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or a little reserved pasta water if it seems too thick. Toss with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to retain that perfect, fresh-from-the-kitchen feel.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is ideal for holding the creamy rosé sauce, other pasta shapes like penne, linguine, or even rigatoni work beautifully as well. Just cook according to package instructions and toss with the sauce.
What can I substitute if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for richness, though the sauce will be slightly less creamy. Coconut cream is another alternative for a dairy-free twist but will alter the flavor a bit.
Is dry white wine necessary? What if I don’t drink alcohol?
The white wine adds acidity and depth, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, substitute it with an equal amount of low-sodium chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. The sauce will still be delicious and rich.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it an easy swap.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add a little heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce during the garlic step or finish with a few drops of hot sauce. Fresh chili slices also make a great addition for a subtle kick that complements the creamy rosé sauce perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Pasta in a Rosé Sauce Recipe is one of those magical meals that feels fancy without demanding all day in the kitchen. The creamy, tomato-tinged sauce paired with tender shrimp and fresh herbs is pure comfort wrapped up in elegance. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become one of your absolute favorites—perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends with your culinary skills. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, and treat yourself to something spectacular tonight!
