Thin Spaghetti With Shrimp

Prep: 20 min., Cook: 20 min. A sprinkle of fresh herbs from the garden adds incredible flavor to this pasta dish. Try basil, thyme, or chives instead of parsley.

Yield:  Makes 4 to 6 servings


1 (16-oz.) box thin spaghetti
2 tablespoons butter
2 shallots, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 bay leaf
1 pound medium-size shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup white wine
3 cups chopped plum tomatoes
1/3 cup half-and-half
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
Garnish: fresh parsley sprigs


Cook spaghetti according to package directions; drain and keep warm.


While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shallots, garlic, and bay leaf; sauté 5 to 6 minutes. Add shrimp, and sauté 4 minutes or just until shrimp turn pink. Stir in wine, and cook, stirring occasionally, 3 minutes or until wine evaporates.


Add tomatoes to skillet, and cook 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in half-and-half and next 3 ingredients; cook, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes. Remove from heat; discard bay leaf.


Transfer spaghetti to a serving dish, and top with shrimp mixture. Garnish, if desired.