Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe for Delicious Weeknight Dinners
Bang Bang Sauce is a creamy, spicy condiment commonly used in Asian-inspired dishes. It typically contains mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. The sauce adds instant flavor to any meal with its perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Bang Bang Sauce offers versatility for many recipes including shrimp, chicken, and even vegetables.
Benefits of Using an Instant Pot
Using an Instant Pot for the Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta provides several advantages. First, it significantly reduces cooking time. You can make a meal that traditionally takes an hour in less than 30 minutes. Second, the Instant Pot enhances flavor by sealing in the ingredients’ natural juices. Third, it’s a one-pot cooking solution, making cleanup easy. Finally, the Instant Pot offers consistency, ensuring the shrimp and pasta are cooked evenly every time.
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients Explanation
This dish requires specific components to achieve its distinctive flavor. You’ll need:
- Shrimp: Use 1 lb of medium-sized, peeled, deveined shrimp. Fresh shrimp works best for the optimal taste.
- Pasta: One box of linguine or fettuccine. These pasta types hold the sauce well.
- Bang Bang Sauce: Combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, and 2 tbsp sriracha. This mixture provides the necessary creaminess and heat.
- Chicken Broth: Use 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. It enhances flavor without overpowering.
- Garlic: Mince 4 cloves of garlic. Fresh garlic adds a sharp and aromatic quality.
- Butter: Add 2 tbsp unsalted butter. It adds richness and helps cook the garlic.
- Olive Oil: Use 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil aids in sautéing the shrimp.
- Shrimp Alternatives: Substitute shrimp with chicken breast or tofu for a non-seafood version.
- Pasta Choices: Replace linguine with gluten-free pasta or zoodles if needed.
- Sauce Adaptations: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to reduce fat, or replace sriracha with hot sauce for different spice levels.
- Broth Substitutes: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
- Garlic and Oil: Replace fresh garlic with garlic powder (½ tsp) and olive oil with avocado oil as desired.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the Shrimp
Start by cleaning the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water, then peel and devein them. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Set the shrimp aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cooking Pasta in the Instant Pot
Pour 2 cups of chicken broth into the Instant Pot. Add 8 ounces of pasta, making sure to spread it evenly. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Quick-release the pressure once done, then drain any remaining liquid.
Combining Ingredients
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the prepared shrimp and cook until pink, around 3 minutes. Stir in the cooked pasta and 1/2 cup of Bang Bang Sauce. Mix until well combined. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
Complement Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta with a variety of side dishes. Serve a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette to add crispness. Roast or steam vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a nutritious balance. Consider garlic bread or dinner rolls for added carbohydrate satisfaction.
Garnishing Tips
Enhance your pasta with thoughtful garnishing. Sprinkle chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color. Drizzle extra Bang Bang Sauce on top for intensified flavor. Add a dash of red pepper flakes for spice. Top with sesame seeds for a crunchy texture. Use lemon wedges for a fresh citrus touch.
Nutritional Information
Health Benefits
Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta offers several health benefits, making it an appetizing yet nutritious choice. Shrimp provides a good source of lean protein, crucial for muscle repair and growth. High in omega-3 fatty acids, shrimp also supports heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood triglyceride levels. Additionally, shrimp contains essential vitamins like B12, which aids in nerve function and energy production.
Pasta, particularly whole wheat, adds dietary fiber to your meal, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer. The Bang Bang Sauce, when made at home, can be adjusted to reduce sugar and fat content, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought versions.
Caloric Content
A typical serving size of Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, roughly one cup, contains approximately 400-450 calories. This depends on the specific ingredients used, particularly the type of pasta and the amount of sauce. Here’s a breakdown:
| Ingredient | Approximate Calories per Serving |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (4 oz) | 100 |
| Pasta (1 cup cooked) | 200-220 |
| Bang Bang Sauce (2 tbsp) | 100-130 |
| Other ingredients combined | 20-40 |
Monitoring portion sizes and ingredient choices can help manage caloric intake. Opt for lighter versions of ingredients, such as low-fat yogurt for the sauce, to further reduce calories.
Conclusion
Creating Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal with minimal effort. The Instant Pot ensures you get a delicious dish quickly with easy cleanup and consistent results. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe offers versatility and health benefits. With the right ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can tailor this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy the delightful combination of shrimp, pasta, and Bang Bang Sauce, and elevate your meal with thoughtful side dishes and garnishes.
