Ink Squid Pasta with Shrimp

 

What is ink squid pasta?

It is a type of pasta that is infused with squid ink, giving it a distinctive black color and a rich, briny flavor. The squid ink not only colors the pasta but also imparts a subtle, savory taste reminiscent of the sea. This pasta is often paired with seafood, such as clams, shrimp, or calamari, and is popular in Mediterranean and Italian cuisines. It adds a gourmet touch to dishes, making them visually striking and deliciously unique.

 

Where can I buy ink squid pasta?

 

Ink squid pasta can be ordered off of Amazon or you can find it at specialty grocery stores.  The first time I bought it was in Chicago at Eataly.  

 

Ink squid pasta with shrimp is a culinary delight that merges the flavors of the sea into a harmonious and visually striking dish. The unique black color of the pasta, derived from squid ink, sets the stage for an elegant and intriguing presentation. Squid ink not only adds depth to the pasta's appearance but also imparts a subtle briny flavor reminiscent of the ocean, perfectly complementing the succulent shrimp. The cherry tomatoes offer a burst of sweetness, and you can enhance the flavor profile by adding a splash of white wine, a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Ink Squid Pasta with Shrimp 

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes 

Ingredients: 

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 
  • ½ cup chopped onion 
  • 2 cups grape tomatoes, cut in half 
  • 2 cloves garlic finely chopped 
  • 1 Tsp fresh thyme chopped or ½ Tsp dried thyme. 
  • 12 ounces of squid ink pasta 
  • 12 ounces of shrimp peeled and deveined 
  • ¼ cup dry white wine; rose or pinot grigio work best 
  • ½ Tsp crushed red pepper 
  • Kosher salt 
  • Freshly ground pepper 
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese 
  • Fresh basil  

 

Instructions: 

  • To prepare this dish, start by cooking the squid ink pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (Save 1/2 cup of the water because you will use it later in the recipe).

  • In a separate pan, heat olive oil.  Sauté minced garlic and onions until fragrant. They should be soft but not brown. This will only take a few minutes. 

  • Stir in grape tomatoes, thyme 1.2 Tsp salt and black pepper to taste. Lower the heat and cook until tomatoes are soft and juicy. This should take about 5-6 minutes.  
  • Turn the heat back to medium and add the shrimp.  Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp becomes opaque and tightly curled.  Stir frequently while they are cooking.  
  • Once the shrimp are ready, gently toss the cooked pasta into the pan. Add the cooked pasta and a few Tbsp. of the water you set back to the skillet.  Gently toss the pasta until it combines with the sauce ensuring the strands are well-coated with the savory sauce. Sprinkle with feta cheese and basil. 

 

Finish off the dish with a sprinkle of feta cheese and basil.  You will want to serve this dish immediately.  Not only does it delight the palate with its rich flavors but also provides a visually stunning centerpiece for any dining table, making it an ideal choice for special occasions, a luxurious weeknight meal or someone wanting to try a new recipe.

Items Needed: 

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.