Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli Recipe

This vibrant and spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli recipe is inspired by the classic Italian dish. The star of this dish is the shrimp cooked in a fiery tomato-based sauce, served over delicate vermicelli pasta. The heat from the red pepper flakes is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the tomatoes, making for a dish that's as flavorful as it is satisfying.

Photos of Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in a well-stocked pantry, you may need to specifically pick up shrimp and vermicelli from the supermarket. Shrimp is available in the seafood section; you can opt for fresh or frozen as per your preference. Vermicelli, a thin pasta similar to spaghetti, can be found in the pasta aisle. If unavailable, you can replace it with any thin pasta.

Ingredients for Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli

Cooking oil: Used as a base to cook the onions and garlic, it adds richness to the dish.

Onion: Gives a depth of flavor to the sauce.

Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor to the sauce.

Tomatoes in thick puree: The base for the sauce, provides a tangy sweetness.

Red pepper flakes: Provides the signature heat to the Fra Diavolo sauce.

Water: Used to adjust the sauce's consistency.

Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh and vibrant flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Shrimp: The star of the dish, adds a delicate, sweet flavor.

Vermicelli: A thin pasta that serves as the base for the sauce and shrimp.

One reader, Donielle Chang says:

This shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli recipe is a game-changer! The spicy kick from the red pepper flakes perfectly complements the succulent shrimp. The dish is bursting with flavor, and the vermicelli adds a delightful texture. It's a must-try for seafood lovers!

Donielle Chang

Mastering the Techniques for Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli

How to sauté onions and garlic: In a large frying pan, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds longer.

How to make the tomato sauce: Stir in the tomatoes, red pepper flakes, water, parsley, and salt. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

How to cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the tomato sauce and cook, covered, just until the shrimp are pink, about 4 minutes.

How to cook vermicelli: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the vermicelli until just done, about 9 minutes. Drain the pasta and toss it with the tomato sauce and shrimp.

How to pair with wine: Look for a refreshing, fruity red wine to contrast with the heat of the red pepper flakes. A bottle of food-friendly Dolcetto or Barbera from the Piedmont region of Italy would be perfect.

How To Make Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli

Each bite of this shrimp fra diavolo is loaded with spicy tomato sauce for a richer meal! It’s also served with tender thin vermicelli for a fuller meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 24 minutes

Total: 34 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspcooking oil
1onion
2garlic cloves
1½cuptomatoes in thick puree,(one 16 oz can), canned, crushed
¼tspred pepper flakes,dried
¼cupwater
¼cupfresh parsley,chopped
¾tspsalt
1lbmedium shrimp
¾lbvermicelli

Instructions

In a large frying pan, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until translucent.
Add the garlic and cook, stirring, 30 seconds longer. Stir in the tomatoes, red-pepper flakes, water, parsley and salt.
Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Add the shrimp and cook, covered, for about 4 minutes just until the shrimp are pink.
In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the vermicelli for about 9 minutes until just done.
Drain the pasta and toss with the tomato sauce and shrimp.
Serve warmm and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 484.22kcal
Fat: 9.61g
Saturated Fat: 1.08g
Trans Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.81g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.85g
Carbohydrates: 70.40g
Fiber: 4.09g
Sugar: 5.13g
Protein: 27.57g
Cholesterol: 142.88mg
Sodium: 727.14mg
Calcium: 100.27mg
Potassium: 523.55mg
Iron: 1.82mg
Vitamin A: 101.13µg
Vitamin C: 15.44mg

Elevate Your Shrimp Fra Diavolo with This Technique Tip

When cooking the shrimp, ensure not to overcook them as they can quickly become tough and rubbery. The moment they turn pink, they are done. This usually takes about 4 minutes. Also, when tossing the vermicelli with the tomato sauce and shrimp, do it gently to avoid breaking the pasta strands.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Shrimp Fra Diavolo

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients before starting to cook. This will save time and make the cooking process smoother.

One-pot wonder: Consider using a single pot for both the sauce and the pasta to minimize cleanup and save time.

Quick-cook shrimp: Opt for pre-cooked shrimp to reduce cooking time and simplify the recipe.

Efficient multitasking: While the sauce is simmering, use that time to cook the vermicelli and prepare the wine pairing.

Fresh and frozen: Use frozen pre-chopped onions and garlic to save time on prep work without sacrificing flavor.

Streamlined cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli Recipe

shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and mild, sweet flavor that can work well in a fra diavolo dish. They also cook quickly, making them a suitable alternative to shrimp.
vermicelli - Substitute with linguine: Linguine is a slightly thicker pasta that can hold up well with the bold flavors of the fra diavolo sauce. Its texture and shape make it a good substitute for vermicelli in this recipe.

Presenting Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, carefully arrange the vermicelli in a neat mound at the center of the plate. This will serve as the base for the shrimp fra diavolo.
Garnish with fresh parsley: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley over the top of the dish. This will add a pop of vibrant green color and a touch of freshness to the presentation.
Incorporate a touch of heat: For a visually striking element, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes around the edge of the plate. This not only adds a hint of spice but also enhances the overall visual appeal.
Opt for elegant dinnerware: Select sophisticated, white dinnerware to showcase the vibrant colors of the shrimp fra diavolo and vermicelli. The contrast will make the dish visually appealing and inviting.
Emphasize the shrimp: Strategically place the cooked shrimp on top of the vermicelli, ensuring that they are evenly distributed and visible. This will highlight the star ingredient of the dish.
Consider a drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, lightly drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the dish. This adds a glistening sheen and a touch of richness to the presentation.
Use negative space: Allow some breathing room around the plated dish to create a sense of elegance and refinement. This will draw attention to the carefully arranged components of the shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli.

Essential Tools for Making Shrimp Fra Diavolo

Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, simmering, and cooking pasta or large quantities of food.
Cooking oil: A liquid fat used for frying, sautéing, and as an ingredient in various recipes.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for slicing, chopping, and preparing ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with perforations used for draining liquids from foods.
Stirring spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items, such as shrimp, while cooking.
Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating or shredding ingredients, such as cheese or garlic.
Measuring cup: A tool used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces or heating liquids.
Pasta pot: A specialized pot with a strainer insert for cooking and draining pasta.
Strainer: A kitchen tool used for separating liquids from solids or sifting dry ingredients.
Garlic press: A tool used for crushing garlic cloves to extract their flavor.
Grill: A cooking surface used for grilling shrimp or other ingredients.
Wine glass: A vessel for serving wine, as recommended in the recipe.

Storing and Freezing Shrimp Fra Diavolo for Later Enjoyment

To store leftover shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pasta to help loosen the sauce and prevent the vermicelli from drying out. Heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli. Transfer the cooled dish to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli, place the container in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or chicken broth to help reconstitute the sauce and pasta.
It's important to note that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly after freezing and thawing, as they may become slightly more rubbery. However, the flavor of the dish should remain delicious.
If you plan to freeze the dish, consider undercooking the vermicelli slightly (by 1-2 minutes) before tossing it with the sauce. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming too soft and mushy when reheated after thawing.

How to Reheat Shrimp Fra Diavolo Leftovers

Reheat the shrimp fra diavolo in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the shrimp are warm, about 5-7 minutes. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.
For a quick and easy method, place the leftover shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If you have leftover shrimp and sauce separately, reheat the sauce in a skillet over medium heat until simmering. Then, add the cooked shrimp and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Serve over freshly cooked vermicelli.
For a crispy texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
If you have a steamer, you can also reheat the shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli by placing it in a heat-safe dish and steaming for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the shrimp and pasta.

Budget-Friendly Shrimp Fra Diavolo: Is It Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. Shrimp and vermicelli can be moderately priced, while other ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and parsley are generally affordable. Considering the overall cost and the delightful flavors of this dish, it can be rated 8/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, making it a reasonable choice for a special dinner.

Is Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli Healthy or Unhealthy?

The shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe uses cooking oil for sautéing, which adds extra fat and calories to the dish
The tomato sauce, while containing healthy ingredients like tomatoes and parsley, also includes salt, which can contribute to high sodium intake
Vermicelli is a refined pasta, meaning it lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives
The recipe doesn't include any additional vegetables, which could provide more vitamins, minerals, and fiber

However, the dish does have some positive aspects, such as the use of shrimp, which is a lean protein source, and the inclusion of onion and garlic, which offer some health benefits.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the cooking oil with a small amount of olive oil, which is a healthier fat option
Reduce the amount of salt used in the tomato sauce, and consider adding more herbs and spices for flavor instead
Swap the vermicelli for a whole grain pasta alternative, such as whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles, to increase the fiber content
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to boost the nutrient profile and add more texture and flavor
Use a low-sodium tomato puree or crushed tomatoes to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal that is also more nutritious and well-balanced.

Editor's Take on This Delightful Shrimp Dish

The shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The spicy kick from the red pepper flakes complements the sweetness of the shrimp, while the fresh parsley adds a burst of herbaceous freshness. The dish is well-balanced and satisfying, and the suggested wine pairing enhances the overall dining experience. It's a classic Italian dish that is sure to impress and satisfy your guests. Enjoy!

Enhance Your Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: A warm and crispy garlic bread would be the perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious fra diavolo sauce

Caprese Salad: A refreshing caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze would provide a nice contrast to the spicy shrimp fra diavolo

Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper would add a healthy and flavorful element to the meal

Exploring Alternatives to Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli

Spicy Cajun Jambalaya: Combine the flavors of Andouille sausage, chicken, and shrimp with the perfect blend of Cajun spices in this hearty jambalaya dish.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Marinate a whole chicken in a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, then roast it to perfection for a juicy and flavorful main course.

Mango Salsa Fish Tacos: Top grilled or fried fish with a refreshing mango salsa and serve in warm tortillas for a delicious and tropical twist on traditional tacos.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Create a rich and creamy risotto by slowly cooking Arborio rice with flavorful mushrooms, onions, and a touch of white wine for a comforting and satisfying dish.

Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream: Bake a medley of fresh berries with a sweet and buttery topping, then serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory and indulgent, these stuffed mushrooms are the perfect way to start your meal. Filled with a rich mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Bruschetta: Fresh and vibrant, bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to please. Topped with a colorful mixture of tomatoes, basil, and garlic, it's a delightful way to awaken your taste buds before the main course.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a velvety, rich chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth with every spoonful. The perfect balance of sweetness and decadence, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and a hint of honey, this berry parfait is a refreshing and light dessert option. The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why trust this Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Vermicelli Recipe:

This recipe for shrimp fra diavolo with vermicelli is a trusted classic that has been enjoyed by countless food lovers. The combination of fresh shrimp and flavorful tomato puree creates a rich and satisfying sauce, while the addition of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick of heat. The use of vermicelli ensures a perfect pasta pairing, allowing the flavors to shine. With a balance of aromatic garlic and onion, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of flavors that will elevate any dining experience. Trust in the simplicity and authenticity of this dish for a memorable meal.

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FAQ:

How spicy is the shrimp fra diavolo?

The level of spiciness in the shrimp fra diavolo can be adjusted to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes used in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of vermicelli?

Yes, you can use a different type of pasta such as linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine if you prefer. The key is to cook the pasta until it is just done, as indicated in the recipe.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Make sure to properly thaw and drain the shrimp before adding them to the dish.

What can I substitute for fresh parsley?

If you don't have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley as a substitute. Alternatively, you can also use fresh basil or cilantro for added flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the shrimp fra diavolo is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the shrimp just before serving to save time. Simply reheat the sauce and add the cooked shrimp when you're ready to enjoy the dish.