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If you’re on the lookout for a dish that tantalizes the taste buds and brightens up any dining table, look no further than Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi. This mouthwatering recipe showcases succulent shrimp coated in a bold blackening spice blend, served atop spiraled cavatappi pasta that perfectly captures the dish's luscious, creamy sauce. The vibrant colors and inviting aromas make this dish not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.

Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi

Savor the deliciousness of Spicy Blackened Shrimp Cavatappi, the perfect dish to spice up your dinner routine! With succulent shrimp coated in a bold spice blend, served over spiraled cavatappi pasta and a rich, creamy sauce, this recipe is both a feast for the eyes and a delight for the taste buds. Simple to prepare and sure to impress, click through to explore this mouthwatering recipe and bring an explosion of flavor to your table!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces cavatappi pasta

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions
 

Cook the Cavatappi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.

      Blacken the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are cooked through and have a nice char. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

        Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the cherry tomatoes for about 2 minutes until they start to soften. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

          Combine Ingredients: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the drained cavatappi and blackened shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine.

            Finish the Dish: Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir gently. Adjust seasoning as needed. Allow the dish to cook for another minute to heat through.

              Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve in large pasta bowls, drizzling a bit of extra olive oil on top, and add lemon wedges on the side for an extra zest.