Shrimp and Sugar Snap Peas Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) package linguini pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili oil
• 1 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound sugar snap peas
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cups dry white wine
• cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook until tender, yet firm to the bite, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: In a wok, heat olive oil and chili oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, sugar snap peas, and minced garlic. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes until the shrimp are mostly opaque.

Step 3: Transfer the shrimp mixture to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Add the dry white wine to the wok, bringing it to a boil. Let it cook until the wine is reduced by one-third.

Step 5: Return the shrimp mixture to the wok, then stir in the reserved pasta water. Continue to cook and stir until the shrimp are fully opaque.

Step 6: Remove the wok from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil, unsalted butter, and lemon juice.

Step 7: Toss the cooked linguine into the wok, combining everything well. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Per Serving
Calories	403
Total Fat	8g (10% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	2g (10% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	133mg (44% Daily Value)
Sodium	130mg (6% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	47g (17% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	4g (14% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	26g (51% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	9mg (10% Daily Value)
Calcium	92mg (7% Daily Value)
Iron	5mg (26% Daily Value)
Potassium	247mg (5% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This Shrimp and Sugar Snap Peas recipe is a quick and flavorful dish combining succulent shrimp with crisp sugar snap peas, garlic, and a bit of heat from chili oil. Served with linguine, this vibrant dish makes for a perfect dinner choice. Below, we explore its origin, regional variations, and some interesting facts about this popular dish.

Origin and History

The combination of shrimp and peas can be traced back to various Asian culinary traditions, especially in Chinese and Thai cuisines, where stir-fries with shrimp, vegetables, and a light sauce are common. The concept of pairing seafood with fresh vegetables like sugar snap peas offers a healthy yet delicious meal option. In Western cuisines, the dish has been adapted with ingredients such as pasta and butter to create a comforting yet refined meal. This particular recipe reflects a fusion of Asian and Western culinary techniques, offering a quick yet flavorful dish suitable for any occasion.

Regional Variations

In Asian cuisines, the use of chili oil, garlic, and wine is prevalent, but variations can occur based on the region. In Thailand, for instance, a similar dish might include fish sauce, lemongrass, or tamarind to give it a tangy, sour edge. In Chinese cooking, the shrimp might be cooked with ginger and soy sauce instead of the dry white wine used in this recipe. The sugar snap peas, commonly found in stir-fries, add a satisfying crunch and are a popular vegetable in many parts of Asia. In the United States, this dish often sees variations with pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, to make it more filling and satisfying.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Similar shrimp-based dishes often feature stir-fried vegetables and seafood, but the inclusion of sugar snap peas and the use of linguine makes this recipe unique. In many seafood pasta recipes, such as shrimp scampi or shrimp alfredo, heavy cream and butter are used, whereas this recipe keeps things light with a white wine reduction and fresh basil. Additionally, the subtle heat from chili oil differentiates this dish from other shrimp pasta dishes, providing an exciting layer of flavor. The addition of lemon juice adds a refreshing tang, further setting this dish apart from more traditional pasta recipes.

Where It's Typically Served

This dish is commonly served in casual dining settings, bistros, and seafood restaurants where fresh, light meals are preferred. Its a popular choice for those seeking a healthy, quick meal with the richness of seafood and the brightness of vegetables. The shrimp and sugar snap peas recipe can also be found in homes for weeknight dinners due to its relatively short preparation time and straightforward cooking method. It pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine, making it ideal for a light summer dinner or a special occasion.

Interesting Facts

1. Sugar snap peas are a hybrid between snow peas and garden peas, offering the best of both worlds a sweet flavor with a satisfying crunch. They are high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to any dish.

2. Shrimp are one of the most popular seafood choices worldwide, prized for their sweet and tender meat. They are not only delicious but also packed with protein, making them a healthy source of nutrition.

3. The use of chili oil in this dish gives it a unique twist. Chili oil is commonly used in Asian cooking to add heat and depth of flavor. In this recipe, the chili oil balances the sweetness of the peas and the richness of the shrimp.

4. White wine is often used in cooking seafood dishes, as it complements the delicate flavors of the shrimp and helps to reduce the sauce into a flavorful, aromatic base. The acidity of the wine enhances the overall taste of the dish, making it more vibrant.

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