Jumbo Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Scallops

 Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Bacon & Jumbo Shrimp

Ingredients

 For the Pasta & Protein:

• 240 ml (about 8 oz) spaghetti

• 1 kg jumbo shrimp, whole, washed, dried (tails on or off, your choice)

• 6 slices bacon, chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

 For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1 cup heavy cream (whipping cream)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves (or parsley), chopped, for garnish

 Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes).

3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.

4. Set the pasta aside, tossing with a tiny bit of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large deep skillet or pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat.

2. Sauté until bacon is crispy and golden, about 5–7 minutes.

3. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

4. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan (optional for flavor), or wipe it clean if preferred.

Step 3: Cook the Jumbo Shrimp

1. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the cleaned jumbo shrimp in a single layer.

3. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque with a slight golden sear.

4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic

1. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant (do not burn).

Step 5: Make the Creamy Tuscan Sauce

1. Turn heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream.

2. Use a whisk or spoon to gently combine with the garlic.

3. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

1. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, a few tablespoons at a time.

2. Stir continuously until the cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

3. If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water (1–2 tablespoons at a time) to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Season the Sauce

• Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.

• Stir gently and adjust flavors to your liking.

Step 8: Toss the Pasta

1. Add the cooked spaghetti into the sauce.

2. Gently toss until all the pasta is well-coated with the creamy Tuscan sauce.

Step 9: Assemble the Final Dish

1. Plate the creamy Tuscan spaghetti onto serving dishes.

2. Top each portion with a few of the cooked jumbo shrimp and a sprinkle of crispy bacon.

3. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves (or parsley) for a fresh, vibrant finish.

 Tips & Variations:

• Want extra veggies? Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms after the garlic.

• No bacon? Substitute with pancetta or smoked turkey.

• Extra flavor? Add a splash of white wine before the cream in Step 5 and simmer until reduced.

• Make it spicy? A pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce adds a nice kick.

 Summary

You’ve just created a rich, creamy, flavor-packed Tuscan-style pasta dish that’s sure to impress. Let me know if you want a printable version or a dairy-free alternative!