Shrimp and Tasso Pasta in Olive Oil

4 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 15 m Total: 30 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Shrimp and Tasso Pasta in Olive Oil
Tasso, a nicely seasoned, intensely flavored smoked pork, adds a wonderful flavor to this shrimp and pasta dish loaded with fresh vegetables like zucchini, squash, and broccoli. This recipe also goes really well with grits instead of pasta.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1/3 cup diced Tasso (Louisiana smoked seasoned pork)
  • 1/2 pound peeled shrimp
  • 2 tsp Creole seasoning
  • 1/4 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 yellow squash, sliced
  • 1/3 head broccoli, broken into florets
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 4 mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 package (8-16 oz) Angel Hair pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Season shrimp with 1 tsp seasoning mix. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat; add garlic and Tasso and sauté 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add red pepper, zucchini, squash, broccoli, tomato, mushrooms, remaining seasoning salt and shrimp to skillet. Sauté lightly 8-10 minutes until shrimp are done, tender and pink, and vegetables are crisp-tender.
  3. While vegetables are cooking, boil pasta according to package directions (usually 3-4 minutes for angel hair). Drain well. Gently stir the pasta into the vegetables and serve immediately.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Can I substitute regular ham for tasso?

A: Regular ham will work but won't have the same intense smoky, spicy flavor. If substituting, use a smoked ham and add a pinch of cayenne pepper to get closer to tasso's character.

Q: Why are my vegetables mushy?

A: Don't overcook the vegetables - they should be crisp-tender, not soft. Keep the heat at medium-high and sauté just until the shrimp turn pink, about 8-10 minutes total.

Tips and Techniques

Don’t overcrowd the skillet or the vegetables will steam instead of sauté. If your skillet is small, cook the vegetables in two batches. Also, this dish is meant to be served immediately while the pasta is hot and the vegetables are still slightly crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • tasso: andouille sausage or smoked ham
  • angel hair pasta: linguine, fettuccine, or serve over grits
  • shrimp: crawfish tails or chicken

Equipment Needed

  • large skillet or sauté pan
  • large pot for boiling pasta
  • knife and cutting board

Historical Context

Tasso is a uniquely Louisiana ingredient that originated in Cajun country. It’s made from pork shoulder that’s heavily seasoned with cayenne and garlic, then smoked. It’s traditionally used to flavor beans, gumbos, and pasta dishes like this one.