Imagine a dish where tender pasta sheets embrace a luscious filling of succulent shrimp and vibrant spinach, all swirled together in a velvety red pepper cream sauce that sings with smoky sweetness and subtle heat. Savory Shrimp & Spinach Pasta Rolls in Red Pepper Cream transform everyday ingredients into an elegant feast, perfect for impressing guests or elevating a weeknight dinner.In this article, we’ll dive into the art of assembling these flavorful rolls, explore the secrets behind creating the perfect creamy sauce, and share tips to make this dish both a visual and culinary masterpiece. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and unwrap a new favorite that celebrates fresh seafood, leafy greens, and a rich, colorful sauce in every bite.
Ingredients and Flavor Profile That Make These Pasta rolls Irresistible
Savory Shrimp & Spinach Pasta Rolls in Red Pepper Cream captivate with a harmonious blend of briny shrimp, tender spinach, and smooth ricotta wrapped in delicate pasta sheets, all elevated by a luxuriously rich red pepper cream sauce. The marriage of fresh seafood and earthy greens introduces a refreshing yet savory depth, complemented by a subtle kick from smoked paprika and garlic. This dish embodies both comfort and elegance, perfect for those who crave sophistication without complexity.
Luminous roasted red peppers add a vibrant sweetness to the sauce, balanced by a touch of cream and fragrant herbs, making every bite an indulgent experience. The contrast between the slightly al dente pasta and the velvety filling showcases layers of texture and flavor that invite second helpings.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 25 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 hearty portions
Difficulty Level
Medium – approachable for adventurous home cooks
Ingredients for Savory Shrimp & spinach Pasta Rolls in Red Pepper Cream
- 12 lasagna pasta sheets, cooked al dente and drained
- 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, chopped into bite-size pieces)
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, full-fat for creaminess
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- For the red pepper cream sauce:
- 2 large roasted red bell peppers, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide for Perfectly Rolled Shrimp and Spinach Filling
- Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the chopped shrimp, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.Sauté just until shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through (about 3-4 minutes). Avoid overcooking to keep shrimp tender.
- Sauté Spinach: Toss in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, stirring constantly to prevent sogginess. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked shrimp and spinach mixture with ricotta and Parmesan. Stir until creamy and well-incorporated. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Roll the Pasta: Lay your cooked lasagna sheets flat on a clean surface. Divide the filling evenly, spreading it lengthwise down each sheet.
- Roll & Secure: carefully roll each sheet, tucking in the filling snugly but without tearing the pasta. Set rolls seam-side down on a tray.
Crafting the Rich and Velvety Red Pepper Cream Sauce
- Sauté Shallots: In a clean saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook until soft and translucent,about 3 minutes.
- Blend Red Peppers: Add roasted red peppers to a blender or food processor with the heavy cream and oregano. Blend until very smooth.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour the red pepper puree into the saucepan with the shallots. Stir and gently heat for 5-7 minutes, letting flavors meld and sauce thicken slightly. season with salt and pepper.
- Finish: Remove from heat. For an ultra-silky texture, strain the sauce through a fine sieve.
Expert Tips for Serving and Pairing Your Savory Pasta Rolls
- Plate artistically: Slice each roll diagonally to reveal the colorful filling, nestling them in a shallow pool of the red pepper cream sauce.
- Garnish generously: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped basil.A drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil adds an elegant touch.
- Side suggestions: Serve alongside a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or oven-roasted asparagus to balance richness.
- Beverage pairing: For a refreshing contrast, try a chilled sparkling water with a hint of citrus or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio (non-alcoholic options here).
Chef’s Notes & Tips for Success
- Filling Variations: Swap ricotta for creamy goat cheese or mascarpone for a tangier depth.
- make Ahead: assemble the rolls in advance,than cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a fresh-from-the-oven finish.
- Cooking Pasta: Be careful not to overcook the lasagna sheets; they should still have a slight bite to withstand rolling without cracking.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Fresh roasted peppers from the market speed up prep, but you can roast your own at home under the broiler for best flavor.
- Storing leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently over low heat to preserve texture.
Nutritional Data (per serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 450 kcal | 34 g | 38 g | 15 g |
For more seafood pasta inspiration,check out our Creamy Lobster Fettuccine recipe.To learn techniques for perfectly roasting peppers at home, visit this Serious Eats guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Savory Shrimp & Spinach Pasta Rolls in Red Pepper Cream
Q1: What makes the shrimp and spinach filling stand out in this pasta roll dish?
A1: The filling is a delightful blend of tender, succulent shrimp and fresh, wilted spinach, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp adds a subtle sweetness and a satisfying bite, while the spinach lends an earthy, vibrant note. Combined with a touch of garlic and mild seasoning, the filling bursts with savory goodness inside each pasta roll.
Q2: How do you achieve perfectly tender pasta sheets for rolling?
A2: The key is to use fresh or freshly boiled pasta sheets that are thin and pliable but not overcooked. Briefly boiling the sheets until just al dente ensures they’re flexible enough to roll without cracking. After draining,a light drizzle of olive oil helps prevent sticking and makes the rolling process smoother.
Q3: What’s the secret behind the creamy red pepper sauce?
A3: The sauce’s magic lies in roasting fresh red bell peppers until their skins are charred and sweet, then blending them into a velvety cream base. Combining roasted red pepper puree with cream, garlic, and a hint of smoked paprika creates a rich, luscious sauce with smoky sweetness and just the right amount of warmth to complement the seafood rolls.Q4: can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
A4: Absolutely! You can assemble the pasta rolls a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated, covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them in the oven with the red pepper cream sauce until bubbly and golden on top. This makes it an excellent option for entertaining or meal prep.
Q5: Are there any good substitutions for the shrimp in this recipe?
A5: While shrimp is the star, you can swap it with other seafood like scallops or firm white fish chunks to keep a similar flavor profile. For a vegetarian twist, try sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts-both add a meaty texture and pair wonderfully with the spinach and red pepper cream.
Q6: How can I elevate the texture and flavor of these pasta rolls?
A6: Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or finely chopped toasted almonds inside the filling gives a delightful crunch, contrasting the creamy interior. For extra aroma, folding in fresh herbs like basil or dill livens up the overall flavor.sprinkling a modest amount of grated aged cheese on top before baking adds a golden crust and umami depth.Q7: What side dishes pair well with savory shrimp and spinach pasta rolls?
A7: Light, fresh sides balance the rich, creamy main dish. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette,steamed asparagus,or roasted cherry tomatoes complement the flavors wonderfully without overwhelming the palate.Crisp garlic bread or a crusty baguette also serve as perfect carriers for the luscious sauce.
Q8: How can I adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet?
A8: Swap customary pasta sheets for gluten-free alternatives made from rice,corn,or chickpea flour. Ensure that your cream and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.The filling and sauce remain the same, so you won’t miss out on any flavor while keeping the dish accessible to gluten-sensitive diners.
Q9: What cooking tools are essential for making these pasta rolls?
A9: A large pot for boiling fresh pasta sheets, a sauté pan for cooking shrimp and spinach, and a blender or food processor to puree the roasted red peppers are essential. Additionally, a baking dish for assembling and baking the rolls, along with a sharp knife and a spatula, will make your cooking process seamless.
Q10: Any tips for serving and presentation?
A10: Serve the pasta rolls warm, spooning extra red pepper cream sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh herb sprigs like parsley or chives for a pop of green. Plate individual portions with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to enhance both flavor and visual appeal-turning your meal into a feast for the eyes and palate alike.
Insights and Conclusions
these Savory Shrimp & Spinach Pasta Rolls in Red Pepper cream offer more than just a meal-they’re a festivity of bold flavors wrapped in delicate pasta, bringing a touch of elegance to your dining table. Whether you’re impressing guests or simply treating yourself, this dish combines the richness of succulent shrimp, the earthiness of fresh spinach, and the vibrant warmth of red pepper cream into every bite. So next time you’re craving something both comforting and sophisticated, remember these pasta rolls-where tradition meets a spirited twist, inviting you to savor every forkful with delight.
