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Penne with Amatriciana and Shrimp

17/11/2023

I can suggest a fusion between the traditional Italian amatriciana and the addition of shrimp, a touch of the sea that is not typical of the original recipe, but that can provide a pleasant contrast of flavors. Here is the recipe for Shrimp Amatriciana Penne.

Ingredients

  • 350 g of penne rigate
  • 200 g of guanciale
  • 250 g of shelled shrimp
  • 400 g of peeled tomatoes
  • 1 spicy red chili pepper (optional)
  • 80 g of grated Pecorino Romano
  • 1 onion
  • Salt to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • White wine (a splash)

Preparation

  1. Begin by cutting the guanciale into strips or cubes and place it in a large frying pan with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Sauté over medium heat until it becomes crispy. If you want to add a spicy touch, you can also add the chopped chili pepper at this point.

  2. In the meantime, shell the shrimp if you have not already done so. You can also devein them by making a slight incision along the back and removing it.

  3. Once the guanciale is sautéed, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, fry the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent. If necessary, add another drizzle of oil.

  4. Add the shrimp to the pan with the onion and sauté briefly. Deglaze with a splash of white wine and let the alcohol evaporate.

  5. Add the previously blended or crushed peeled tomatoes. Adjust with salt and cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes.

  6. Meanwhile, bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente.

  7. When the sauce is ready, add the sautéed guanciale to the shrimp and tomatoes and let them flavor together for a few minutes.

  8. Drain the pasta and pour it into the pan with the sauce. Toss the penne in the sauce to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors well.

  9. Sprinkle with plenty of grated Pecorino Romano and mix well before serving.

Curiosity

Amatriciana is a typical sauce of Amatrice, a town located in Lazio. The original recipe calls for the use of guanciale, Pecorino Romano, and tomato sauce. The addition of seafood is a modern variation that deviates from tradition but can be a tasty experiment for those who love the flavors of the sea.

Enjoy your meal!