Looking for a spooky yet delicious dish to serve at your next Halloween party or for a fun dinner? This Vampire Pasta, made with eerie black squid ink pasta, garlic, and shrimp, is the perfect choice. Its striking dark color and bold flavors will captivate your guests, while the simple ingredients make it easy to whip up. This pasta is a feast fit for both the living and the undead!
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Why You’ll Love This Vampire Pasta
- Visually Striking: The black squid ink pasta gives this dish a hauntingly beautiful look—perfect for Halloween or any special occasion.
- Garlicky Goodness: The rich garlic sauce pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp.
- Easy Yet Impressive: Despite its dramatic appearance, this pasta dish is quick and simple to make.
Ingredients for Vampire Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta with Garlic and Shrimp)
- 12 oz squid ink pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for sautéing shrimp and garlic
- Tongs for tossing the pasta
How to Make Vampire Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta with Garlic and Shrimp)
Step 1: Cook the Squid Ink Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp 3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. 4. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it. 5. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn pink and are fully cooked. 6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Shrimp 7. Stir in the vegetable broth (or water) and lemon juice, and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to create a light sauce. 8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the garlicky sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve 9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- For a spooky Halloween vibe, serve the pasta in dark bowls with extra lemon slices shaped like fangs!
Tips for the Best Vampire Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This helps loosen the sauce and allows the pasta to absorb more flavor.
- Add Some Heat: If you like a little kick, don’t skip the red pepper flakes—they add a subtle heat that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I substitute regular pasta for squid ink pasta?
A: Yes! While squid ink pasta adds a dramatic color, you can use regular pasta if that’s what you have on hand. The flavors will still be fantastic.
Q2: Is squid ink pasta fishy?
A: Squid ink has a subtle briny flavor, but it’s not overpowering. It adds a unique richness to the dish without tasting too “fishy.”
Q3: Can I use other seafood in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with scallops, clams, or even calamari for variety.
Conclusion: A Spooky Dish with Bold Flavors!
Vampire Pasta is a striking dish that combines dramatic squid ink pasta with garlicky shrimp, making it both a visual and flavorful treat. Whether you’re looking for a Halloween showstopper or just something special for dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite—after all, it’s hauntingly delicious!
Enjoy this spooky pasta, and don’t forget to share your kitchen creations with us on social media. We’d love to see how you make your Vampire Pasta come to life!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
Sink your fangs into this deliciously dark and garlicky pasta, and enjoy every bite!
