Squid Ink Seafood Pasta is a striking dish that combines the rich flavors of the sea with the dramatic appearance of jet-black squid ink spaghetti. The tender shrimp and succulent sea scallops are sautéed with garlic, creating a fragrant base that perfectly complements the unique pasta. This luxurious meal is not only visually stunning but also a delightful treat for seafood lovers, making it perfect for special occasions or an elegant dinner at home.
Cook with confidence
Cook's notes
Cook the squid ink spaghetti according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. The shrimp and scallops should be sautéed quickly over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes to maintain their tender texture. If you prefer some heat, add the red pepper flakes while cooking, but adjust to your taste for a balanced flavor.
Substitutions
If you can't find squid ink spaghetti, regular spaghetti or linguine can be used, though the dish will lack the distinctive black color. For seafood, you can substitute shrimp with other shellfish like mussels or clams, and scallops can be replaced with firm white fish like cod or halibut.
Storage & leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of white wine or olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Common failures
Avoid overcooking the shrimp and scallops, as they can become rubbery. If the pasta sticks together, ensure you stir it well during cooking and toss it with olive oil after draining to keep it separate.
Why these ingredients
How each main ingredient earns its place in this recipe
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squid ink spaghetti
The squid ink spaghetti not only provides a unique color and presentation but also adds a subtle briny flavor that enhances the overall seafood experience in the dish.
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shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a sweet, succulent flavor that complements the rich sauce, making up half of the seafood component in this dish.
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sea scallops
Sea scallops contribute a delicate, buttery texture and a mild sweetness, balancing the bold flavors of the squid ink and garlic in the pasta.
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garlic
Garlic is essential for building a fragrant base; it infuses the oil with flavor and enhances the overall taste of the seafood, creating a savory depth in the dish.
Preparation
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Step 1 10 min
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the squid ink spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water, then drain the noodles and set aside in a large bowl.
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Step 2 8 min
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, add the shrimp and sea scallops to the skillet, cooking quickly until the seafood turns opaque and lightly browned, about 4 minutes for the shrimp and 4 minutes for the scallops.
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Step 3 2 min
If using, sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the seafood for a touch of heat. Pour the dry white wine into the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
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Step 4 5 min
Add the cooked squid ink spaghetti to the skillet along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything continuously for about 5 minutes until the noodles are glossy and evenly coated with the sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add more reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
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Step 5
Season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as necessary. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
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Step 6
To serve, divide the squid ink seafood pasta between two plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Enjoy your elegant seafood dish immediately while it's hot.
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