Roasted Beet and Shrimp Pasta

Name: Roasted Beet and Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g spaghetti or linguine; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and diced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 500g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes

When I first combined roasted beets with shrimp in a pasta dish, I was amazed by how the earthy sweetness of the beets paired beautifully with the briny flavor of the shrimp. This recipe brings together these contrasting elements, creating a colorful and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. The vibrant colors brighten up my plate, and I love how the flavors come alive with a hint of garlic and a splash of lemon. It's not just a feast for the eyes; it's a delightful culinary experience that I can't get enough of!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-15T14:02:19.493Z

Creating this Roasted Beet and Shrimp Pasta was an adventure for my taste buds. I remember the first time I decided to add roasted beets into a pasta dish; I was curious if the sweetness would overpower the shrimp. To my surprise, the beets enhanced the flavor profile and created a visually stunning meal. I suggest roasting the beets until they're tender but still maintain their shape, then tossing them gently with the pasta to keep everything vibrant.

One of the best tips I can share is to roast the beets a day ahead to save time. The roasted beets can be kept in the fridge, and when combined with freshly cooked shrimp and pasta, it becomes an effortless yet impressive dish. The simplicity of this recipe reflects my cooking philosophy—using fresh ingredients to create something beautiful and delicious!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The earthy sweetness of roasted beets complements the succulent shrimp perfectly.
A vibrant, colorful dish that's as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
A healthy balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

The Magic of Roasting Beets

Roasting beets transforms their flavor into something truly extraordinary. The caramelization process produces complex sweetness that plays off the savory elements of this dish. When preparing beets, it's essential to peel and dice them uniformly to ensure even cooking. Cut them into 1-inch pieces, allowing them to roast thoroughly at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes. You're looking for tender beets with a slightly crisp edge—this texture adds a delightful contrast to the dish.

Another tip is to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Give the beets enough room to roast without steaming. If you're short on time, pre-cooked beets are a great time-saver. Just ensure they're not overly seasoned if you're planning to roast them further. Their already sweet and earthy profile will shine through in this pasta dish.

Cooking the Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta may seem straightforward, but timing and technique are crucial for achieving the right texture. Always boil your water with a generous pinch of salt; this not only flavors the pasta but also enhances the dish overall. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the pasta and stir to prevent sticking. For spaghetti or linguine, look for that perfect 'al dente' cook, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand and thickness.

Remember to reserve some pasta water while draining. This starchy liquid can be added back to the dish to help bind the pasta and sauce together, creating a wonderfully cohesive texture. Once drained, toss the pasta immediately with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, especially if you're not serving it straight away.

Finishing Touches

The sautéed shrimp plays a vital role in creating a savory balance. When cooking, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp; this helps in achieving a nice sear. A good tip is to space the shrimp evenly in the pan; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than sautéing. Cook them until they’re just pink and opaque—this typically takes 5-7 minutes. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them. If you want a bit of a kick, adjust the chili flakes to your taste during cooking.

To serve, I like to add a splash of reserved pasta water while tossing everything together. This not only brings all the flavors together but also adds a glossy finish to your finished pasta dish. Garnishing with fresh parsley not only provides a vibrant color contrast but adds freshness that cuts through the richness of the beets and shrimp.

Ingredients

Pasta

300g spaghetti or linguine
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Roasted Beets

4 medium-sized beets, peeled and diced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Shrimp

500g shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Roast the Beets

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes or until tender.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the shrimp, chili flakes, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine and Serve

In a large bowl, combine the roasted beets, sautéed shrimp, and cooked pasta. Toss gently to mix. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction over the finished dish before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish lighter or more plant-based, consider substituting the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu. Both options can absorb the flavors of garlic and chili while maintaining a satisfying texture in the pasta. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the spaghetti or linguine with your favorite gluten-free pasta varieties, which usually work well with the same cooking techniques.

For an added layer of flavor, try incorporating a handful of arugula or spinach towards the end of cooking. They wilt nicely and add a nice peppery bite alongside the sweetness of the beets. Additionally, you could play with roasted nuts as a topping, like walnuts or pine nuts, adding a delightful crunch to the dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta dish can be prepared in parts ahead of time. Roast the beets early in the day and store them in an airtight container. They'll retain their flavors and make assembly quick and easy when you're ready to serve. Cooked shrimp can also be stored in the refrigerator for about 1-2 days if you plan to enjoy this dish over a couple of meals.

However, I recommend waiting to cook the pasta until just before serving for the best texture. If you find yourself with leftovers, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water over low heat to retain moisture and prevent overcooking the shrimp during reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this Roasted Beet and Shrimp Pasta with a chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, enhances the dish’s flavors. The brightness of the wine complements the shrimp while balancing the sweetness of the beets. A side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette makes an excellent accompaniment, providing a refreshing contrast.

For a heartier meal, consider adding a slice of crusty bread brushed with garlic oil for a delightful dipping option. This not only rounds out the meal but also adds a rustic element that complements the vibrant pasta dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.

→ What type of pasta can I use?

You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Consider adding spinach, arugula, or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness and flavor.