Pacific Penne

Introduction

Pacific Penne is a delightful pasta dish that draws inspiration from the fresh and vibrant flavors of the Pacific Northwest. Known for its diverse culinary traditions, the region offers a bounty of fresh seafood and locally-harvested vegetables, which provide the backbone for this mouth-watering recipe. In this dish, the rich creaminess of the sauce complements the natural sweetness of shrimp and the earthy notes of mushrooms, while parsley adds a fresh finish.

History

Originating in the coastal regions, Pacific Penne builds on traditional recipes passed down through generations, incorporating unique elements from Italian and Pacific cuisines. As travelers and immigrants brought new ingredients and techniques to the Pacific coast, penne pasta, often used as a canvas to showcase regional produce, became a local favorite. Today, it's a beloved comfort food celebrated for its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta - 400g
• Shrimp (peeled and deveined) - 300g
• Button mushrooms - sliced, 150g
• Fresh spinach - 100g
• Yellow onion - finely chopped, 1 medium
• Garlic - minced, 3 cloves
• White wine - 100ml
• Heavy cream - 200ml
• Lemon - 1 (juice and zest)
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh parsley - chopped, for garnish
• Black pepper - to taste
• Salt - to taste

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by gathering and preparing your ingredients. Start with the shrimp; ensure they are peeled and deveined. For added flavor, marinate them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice before cooking. Next, slice the mushrooms and finely chop the onion and garlic. Wash and drain the spinach leaves, ensuring they are free from dirt and excess water.

Cooking the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to package instructions until al dente. This should take roughly 10-12 minutes. Use a cooking timer to ensure precision. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving some pasta water for later use.

Cooking Process

Sautéing the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the marinated shrimp and sauté until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Sauce

In the same skillet, add additional olive oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Introduce the mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until tender.

Pour in the white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce by half. Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer and thicken.

Combining Ingredients

Add the cooked penne and reserved pasta water to the sauce, stirring to coat. Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp, fresh spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Finishing Touches

Before serving, garnish the Pacific Penne with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a burst of color and a fresh layer of flavor to the dish.

Tips for Enjoying

Pacific Penne is best enjoyed right after cooking to savor the balance of flavors and textures. For a fuller experience, pair it with a light-bodied white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the citrus and seafood elements beautifully. Consider serving a side salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette to further enhance the meal.

Storage and Reheating

Should you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce's consistency.

Experience the delightful fusion of Pacific flavors with every bite of Pacific Penne—a true testament to the regional richness and versatility.