For the 4th: An Easy, Beachy Meal

Happy 4th of July!



Courtesy of Anders Ruff Custom Designs

Maybe you are at a party celebrating America's big day with adorable decorations like these from Anders-Ruff Custom Designs, which is based right here in my home state.  Two moms from the Charlotte area have a great eye for making a party truly festive.



Courtesy of Anders Ruff 4th of July Pinwheels Party


Some of you may even be celebrating at the beach. Coastal vacations are at its peak this week.   It's a great place to celebrate Independence Day!

There is something about the sea air that makes you hungry. A lot of fourth of July meals include burgers, potato salad, and apple pie.  I've already shared with you my great burger recipe so I thought I would share a delightful meal for the beach.  You can eat this meal inland, too.   You can use fresh shrimp or frozen shrimp.  No matter what you use, it's easy.   I cook it almost every year that we are at Topsail Beach. 

Saucy Shrimp with Bow-Tie Pasta

8 ounces of bow-tie pasta

1 teaspoon of olive oil

1 medium onion

1 tablespoon of bottled minced garlic

1 can of Hunts diced tomatoes  (14 1/2 ounces) with basil and oregano

1 8 ounce can of tomato sauce

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Salt to taste

8 ounces already-peeled raw or cooked shrimp

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook Bow-tie pasta as directed.  I like to use the mini bow-ties. I usually cook the pasta while the other dish is simmering.

Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.  Peel and coarsely chop the onion, adding it to the skillet as you chop. Add the garlic and cooking, stirring on occasion, until the onion is soft, about 3 minutes.

Add the tomatoes (not-drained), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt.  Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes. 

When your bow-ties are about to be finished cooking, add the uncooked shrimp to the tomato sauce, raise the heat and cook until they are just pink, 3 to 4 minutes for raw.  If shrimp are precooked, reduce time to 2 to 3 minutes to heat through.  Stir frequently.  Top with Parmesan cheese once plated.

You have a great, simple meal for the beach.  We serve it with a salad.

Until next time, I'm off to enjoy some family time.

Tweet