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BANG BANG SHRIMP PASTA

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Introduction

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and indulgent dish combining tender shrimp with a flavorful, zesty sauce, tossed over perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe brings restaurant-style excitement to your dinner table with minimal effort, making it ideal for weeknights or special occasions.

Origin

The “Bang Bang” sauce gained popularity in American cuisine, often featured in seafood dishes at casual dining chains. It’s typically a combination of creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a kick of sriracha. Pairing it with pasta is a modern twist that blends Asian-inspired flavors with Italian comfort food.

Cultural Significance

Bang Bang dishes represent the fusion trend in contemporary American cuisine—mixing bold flavors from Asian-inspired sauces with traditional Western staples like pasta. It’s a favorite for its sweet, spicy, and creamy balance, embodying the comfort and indulgence of modern dining at home.

Ingredients Quantity

For 4 servings:

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
  • 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1–2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2–3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Optional Additions

  • Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra vegetables
  • A squeeze of lime for brightness
  • Crushed red pepper for added heat
  • A sprinkle of smoked paprika for depth

Tips for Success

  1. Don’t overcook shrimp: They cook quickly; overcooking makes them rubbery.
  2. Use freshly minced garlic: It elevates the flavor compared to pre-minced options.
  3. Adjust spice level: Start with 1 tbsp sriracha and add more to taste.
  4. Reserve pasta water: Helps to thin the sauce and coat pasta evenly.
  5. Serve immediately: Pasta absorbs sauce quickly, so serve while creamy and fresh.

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
  3. Sauté shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Reduce heat to medium, then stir in mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Mix until smooth and heated through.
  6. Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
  7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, green onions, and parsley (if using). Serve hot.

Description

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant, creamy dish with perfectly cooked shrimp coated in a sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce. The pasta acts as a comforting base, soaking up every bit of the flavorful sauce, while garnishes add freshness and a touch of color.

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 500–550 kcal
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg (depends on sauce and cheese used)

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a quick, indulgent dish that packs bold flavors into a comforting pasta meal. It’s a restaurant-style recipe you can enjoy at home, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.

Recommendation

Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Pair with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lime for balance.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This dish combines protein-rich shrimp with pasta for energy and satiety. To lighten it, consider whole wheat or veggie pasta, use a lighter mayonnaise, or add extra vegetables for fiber and nutrients—allowing you to enjoy indulgent flavors while keeping it balanced.

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