Tequila-Spiked Fettuccine with Shrimp and California Avocado
Courtesy of California Avocado Commission 4 Servings • 15 Min. Prep Time • 30 MIn. Cook Time| Ingredients |
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| 6 large, ripe tomatoes, cored |
| 1/2 lb. fettuccine |
| 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for pasta |
| 1 lb. medium uncooked domestic shrimp, peeled and deveined |
| 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes |
| 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper |
| 1 tsp. salt |
| 2 tsp. minced garlic |
| 1/4 c. silver tequila |
| 2 ripe Fresh California Avocados, halved, seeded, peeled and cut in 1/2-in. dice (see Note below) |
| 1 bunch basil, cut into thin strips |
| 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, cold |
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| Note: *Large avocados are recommended for this recipe. A large avocado averages about 8 oz. If using smaller or larger size avocados adjust the quantity accordingly. |
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| Recipe created by chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger for the California Avocado Commission. |
Directions:
1. Puree the tomatoes in a blender until smooth, adding a small amount of water, if necessary. Reserve.
2. Fill a large stockpot with water and bring to a boil. Add the pasta and salt to the pot. Cook until al dente, about 8 min. Drain in a colander and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, crushed red pepper, salt and pepper and sauté the shrimp for 1 min. on each side. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional 30 sec.
4. Remove skillet from heat and add the diced tomatoes and tequila. Return skillet to heat and continue to sauté for 3 min., stirring constantly. (Be careful as pan might flame.)
5. Stir in half the diced avocado and half the basil. Transfer shrimp mixture to a platter using a slotted spoon, leaving liquid in the skillet.
6. Add the reserved tomato puree to the skillet, bring to a boil, lower heat, and simmer until the mixture is reduced by about one-third. Add the butter, stirring until it is melted. Then, add the remaining diced avocado and basil. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Toss finished sauce with cooked pasta until thoroughly combined.
7. To serve, divide pasta mixture onto individual entrée plates or into shallow pasta bowls. Top with shrimp mixture and serve immediately.
