If you’re looking for an indulgent yet sophisticated dish for Christmas, this Creamy Seafood Pasta is a fantastic choice. Combining the delicate flavours of mixed seafood with a rich, creamy sauce, this recipe is simple to prepare but offers a restaurant-quality meal at home. Perfect for a festive dinner, this pasta dish brings a touch of elegance to your holiday celebrations.
Recipe: Creamy Seafood Pasta
This Creamy Seafood Pasta is made with fresh seafood, garlic, and lemon zest, creating a luxurious dish that’s well-suited for special occasions like Christmas.
Ingredients
- 400g mixed seafood (prawns, scallops, mussels, or your favourite mix)
- 300g fettuccine
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- Zest of one lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Cook the Fettuccine: Prepare the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Cook the Seafood: Add the mixed seafood to the pan. Sauté until the seafood is just cooked through, about 3–5 minutes depending on the types of seafood used. Be careful not to overcook.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for a few minutes, then add the Parmesan and stir until it melts and combines with the cream to create a smooth sauce.
- Add Lemon Zest and Parsley: Stir in the lemon zest and chopped parsley for a pop of freshness that balances the creaminess.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the pan with the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta in individual bowls or on a large serving platter. Garnish with additional parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an elegant presentation.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Seafood Pasta
- Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh prawns, scallops, and mussels bring the best flavours to this dish. Frozen seafood can also work but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Seafood can quickly become rubbery if overcooked, so keep a close eye and remove from heat as soon as it’s done.
- Add Lemon Zest at the End: The fresh lemon zest brings a burst of citrus that lifts the creamy sauce without overpowering it. Add it right before serving to preserve its brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Creamy Seafood Pasta with side dishes that complement its rich and creamy profile, such as:
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Light green salad: A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed asparagus or broccoli: Adds a touch of green and a hint of bitterness to balance the creamy pasta.
Serve the pasta on a large, shallow bowl, and garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge on the side for an elegant presentation.
Pairing with Millon Wines' The Impressionist Chardonnay
For an ideal pairing, enjoy this Creamy Seafood Pasta with Millon Wines’ 2023 Impressionist Chardonnay. This Chardonnay’s crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, while its citrus and green apple notes complement the seafood's delicate flavours. Serve the wine slightly chilled to enhance its refreshing quality, making each sip a delightful complement to the creamy pasta.
This holiday season, bring a touch of elegance to your Christmas meal with this Creamy Seafood Pasta. With its luxurious sauce, fresh seafood, and perfect pairing with Millon Wines’ Impressionist Chardonnay, this dish is sure to impress. Treat your guests to a festive dining experience they’ll remember and savour every bite of this delightful recipe.