Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Tomatoes and Garlic

Step 1

SHRIMP STOCK: Combine the shrimp peels, water, parsley, peppercorns, and 6 whole cloves of garlic, a big pinch of salt in a stockpot. Allow the stock to come to a boil, then lower the heat and let simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the stock through a strainer, reserve 1 cup of the stock.

Step 2

PASTA: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt the water, and cook the pasta minus 1-2 minutes from the package directions, drain and set aside.

Step 3

SIMMER: In a saute pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Slice the remaining 4 cloves of garlic into slices. Add the garlic along with the red pepper flakes to the oil and allow the garlic to sizzle for about 1 minute. Add ¾ cup of shrimp stock and bring to a simmer before adding in all the tomatoes. Stir to combine and when the tomatoes start to simmer, season with salt and black pepper. Cover, lower the heat to low and cook for 10 minutes. Remove the lid, raise the heat back to medium, and continue to cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 4

FINISH: Add the shrimp and let the shrimp cook for 2 minutes, then add the butter and stir it in so that it just melts into the sauce. Continue to cook until the shrimp is almost done, about another 30-60 seconds. Check for seasonings, season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Add the prepared pasta and toss. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little bit of the remaining shrimp stock to thin. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and parmesan cheese before serving.