Seafood Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce (Alcohol-Free Version)

Seafood Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce, featuring tender shrimp, scallops, and mussels. No wine or alcohol, perfect for an elegant and family-friendly dinner.

This Seafood Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce is the ultimate seafood lover’s delight without the use of alcohol. With fresh shrimp, succulent scallops, and juicy mussels, it’s a flavor-packed experience made even richer with butter and herbs. It’s an ideal dish to prepare for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your seafood cravings. Using simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible for all, without compromising on restaurant-quality taste.

For additional delicious seafood options, consider checking out our Shrimp Cakes Recipe for a crispy treat or our comforting Sicilian Salmon Risotto.

Key Ingredients

• Mussels (1 pound): Fresh mussels add rich umami flavor.
• Sea Scallops (8 ounces): Dry scallops ensure the best sear.
• Large Shrimp (8 ounces, peeled and deveined): Frozen or fresh will do.
• Linguine Pasta (12 ounces): Linguine works well with creamy sauces, but spaghetti can also be substituted.
• Butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness to the sauce.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for searing seafood.
• Shallot (1, minced): Sweetness to balance the garlic.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Essential aromatic component.
• Vegetable Broth (½ cup): Used in place of white wine for a rich flavor.
• Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Adds brightness.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds depth of herbal flavor.
• Old Bay Seasoning (1 ½ teaspoons): Essential for seafood.
• Red Pepper Flakes (⅛ teaspoon): Optional, for a hint of heat.
• Fresh Parsley (⅓ cup, chopped): Adds freshness and color.

Substitutions: Replace linguine with gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: To cook the pasta.
• Wide Skillet with Lid: To cook the seafood and sauce.
• Tongs: For flipping seafood and mixing pasta.

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Pre-Preparation

1. Clean the Mussels:
   • Soak mussels in cold water with ⅓ cup flour for 30 minutes to remove sand. Rinse and scrub thoroughly.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • In a large pot, boil salted water and cook linguine pasta to al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Cooking the Seafood and Sauce

1. Sear the Scallops and Shrimp:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the scallops for about 1 ½ minutes on each side until golden brown. Add shrimp, seasoning with ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Cook until opaque (approximately 2 minutes), then set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon butter, sauté shallots for 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.
3. Cook the Mussels:
   • Add vegetable broth, oregano, Old Bay Seasoning, and bring to a simmer. Add mussels, cover the skillet, and steam for 5 minutes until mussels open (discard unopened mussels).

Combine Everything

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add cooked linguine into the skillet. Pour in lemon juice and reserved pasta water as needed for a creamy consistency.
2. Finish with Seafood:
   • Add scallops, shrimp, and fresh parsley. Toss gently until well combined. Serve hot.

Chef’s Secrets

• Dry Scallops for the Perfect Sear: Always use dry scallops; if they are wet, pat them dry to ensure they develop a golden crust.
• Broth as Wine Substitute: To replace white wine, use vegetable broth for a similarly rich flavor without alcohol.
• Perfect Mussel Cleaning: Soaking mussels in flour and water helps them release sand, giving you clean, grit-free seafood.

Alternative Versions or Modifications

• Creamy Version: Add ½ cup coconut milk for a creamy, non-dairy alternative.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the seafood with mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or increase red pepper flakes for added heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Seafood: Ensure shrimp and scallops are just opaque—overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
• Skipping Pasta Water: The reserved starchy water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta, creating a silky finish.
• Using Unwashed Mussels: Not scrubbing mussels properly can result in a gritty texture. Always clean thoroughly.

Tips and Tricks

• Timing is Key: Cook the pasta and seafood simultaneously so everything stays fresh and hot.
• Fresh Parsley Garnish: Use fresh herbs to add a final burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest for Extra Brightness: Sprinkle lemon zest at the end for a more vibrant citrus flavor.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 635 kcal per serving
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 80g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g

This pasta is rich in lean protein and healthy fats, offering a balanced and flavorful dish without the use of alcohol.

FAQs

1. Q: What can I use instead of wine in the sauce?
   A: Use vegetable broth for a similar flavor profile without any alcohol content.
2. Q: Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
   A: Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
3. Q: How should I store leftovers?
   A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a bit of broth to keep it moist.
4. Q: Can I use different types of seafood?
   A: Yes, feel free to use clams or squid instead of mussels, or even add crab meat for variation.
5. Q: Is gluten-free pasta an option for this dish?
   A: Absolutely. Replace the linguine with a gluten-free alternative, and the recipe will still be delicious.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Serve with Salad: A fresh Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad works well alongside this rich pasta dish.
• As an Appetizer: Offer smaller portions as an appetizer before a main course.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce creamy.

Conclusion

Seafood Pasta in Garlic Butter Sauce is an easy yet elegant dish that provides maximum flavor with minimal effort—without any alcohol. Fresh shrimp, mussels, and scallops are perfectly cooked and tossed in a rich, buttery sauce for a dish that’s comforting yet impressive. Don’t forget to try our Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon for another seafood favorite, or Easy Indian Chicken Curry if you’re looking for a spiced delight.