There’s something so comforting about a bowl of pasta richly mingled with fresh seafood—a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside. This trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe has become a cherished staple in my kitchen, especially on evenings when I crave a quick yet soulful meal. It reminds me of the countless times Mama Lou would gather my sister Ouma and me around her cozy table, sharing stories while the aroma of simmering garlic and seafood filled the air. Today, I want to share this recipe with you, not just for its flavors, but for the memories and love woven into every bite.
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Why You’ll Love This trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe
What I adore about this trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe is how it marries convenience with heartfelt tradition. The seafood blend from Trader Joe’s—fresh, versatile, and thoughtfully prepared—allows anyone to bring a touch of the sea to their table without hours of preparation. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or those spontaneous dinners when you want something special but simple.
Growing up, my grandmother Mama Lou taught me that cooking is more than just feeding the body; it’s about nurturing connections. Using this seafood blend, I’m able to create a dish that feels luxurious yet down-to-earth, reminding me of those evenings with Ouma when we’d sneak tastes straight from the pot and laugh over our shared love of good food.
This recipe is a celebration of that spirit. It’s approachable, packed with fresh flavors, and carries a nostalgic warmth that makes it feel like home, no matter where you are.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe
- 12 ounces Trader Joe’s Seafood Blend (usually a mix of shrimp, scallops, mussels, and calamari)
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti pasta (feel free to use gluten-free pasta if preferred)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with seafood broth or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
If you’re like me and sometimes need to swap ingredients on the fly, I’ve found that substituting the white wine with a splash of lemon juice and broth keeps the dish bright and flavorful. And if you don’t have fresh parsley, a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs can work in a pinch, though fresh always brings that vibrant touch Mama Lou would insist on.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 12g (mostly healthy fats from olive oil and seafood)
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g (mostly from cherry tomatoes)
- Sodium: 600mg (can be adjusted depending on added salt and broth choice)
These nutrition facts highlight why I feel good serving this dish to my family. It’s balanced, with a generous protein boost from the seafood and enough carbs to keep everyone satisfied after a busy day. Mama Lou always believed a meal should nourish both body and soul, and this hit that mark beautifully. Learn more: Ultimate Pasta Recipe Christmas: Easy & Delicious
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Easy and Delicious Trader Joes Seafood Blend Pasta Recipe You Need to Try
Learn how to make delicious trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Trader Joe’s Seafood Blend (usually a mix of shrimp, scallops, mussels, and calamari)
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti pasta (feel free to use gluten-free pasta if preferred)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with seafood broth or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
If you’re like me and sometimes need to swap ingredients on the fly, I’ve found that substituting the white wine with a splash of lemon juice and broth keeps the dish bright and flavorful. And if you don’t have fresh parsley, a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs can work in a pinch, though fresh always brings that vibrant touch Mama Lou would insist on.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté gently for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, but not burnt. I always remind myself of Mama Lou’s words here: “Garlic sings when it’s just right.”
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. This step adds a natural sweetness to balance the briny seafood.
- Pour in the white wine (or broth) and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, reducing slightly. This creates a delicate sauce that’s both light and flavorful.
- Add the Trader Joe’s Seafood Blend to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the seafood is opaque and cooked through. I always keep a close eye here—overcooking seafood can rob it of its tender texture, something Mama Lou could spot from a mile away.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the seafood and sauce. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture seems dry. This helps the sauce cling perfectly to every strand.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The bright lemon finish is something Ouma and I both love—it wakes up the whole dish and gives it that final burst of freshness.
- Serve immediately, with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Mama Lou always said, “A little cheese is like a little love on top.”
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté gently for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, but not burnt. I always remind myself of Mama Lou’s words here: “Garlic sings when it’s just right.”
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. This step adds a natural sweetness to balance the briny seafood.
- Pour in the white wine (or broth) and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, reducing slightly. This creates a delicate sauce that’s both light and flavorful.
- Add the Trader Joe’s Seafood Blend to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the seafood is opaque and cooked through. I always keep a close eye here—overcooking seafood can rob it of its tender texture, something Mama Lou could spot from a mile away.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the seafood and sauce. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture seems dry. This helps the sauce cling perfectly to every strand.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The bright lemon finish is something Ouma and I both love—it wakes up the whole dish and gives it that final burst of freshness.
- Serve immediately, with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Mama Lou always said, “A little cheese is like a little love on top.”
Tips for Making the Best trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe
One of my favorite memories is standing beside Mama Lou, watching her cook with quiet confidence. She taught me that the secret to any great dish lies in attention and love.
- Don’t rush the garlic: Let it sizzle gently to release its flavor without burning, which can add bitterness.
- Use fresh seafood blend: Trader Joe’s seafood blend is great because it’s prepped and ready, but always check for freshness—if anything smells off, trust your senses.
- Adjust spice levels: Red pepper flakes add warmth, but you can omit or increase them based on your family’s preference. I remember Ouma sneaking extra flakes into her bowl when she thought no one was watching.
- Reserve pasta water: This starchy water is a magic ingredient that ties your sauce and pasta together beautifully.
- Don’t overcook seafood: It cooks quickly; once it turns opaque, it’s done. Overcooked seafood reminds me of a lesson Mama Lou shared—“Patience is a cook’s best friend.”
- Fresh herbs matter: Parsley brightens the dish and adds a fresh, green note that dried herbs can’t quite capture.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish feels like a celebration on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides that complement its coastal charm. One of my favorite memories is sitting around the table with Ouma, dipping crusty bread into the leftover sauce and savoring every bite.
- Crusty Italian or sourdough bread, perfect for soaking up the sauce
- A light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette to echo the brightness of the pasta
- Steamed or roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt
- A chilled glass of crisp white wine or a sparkling water with lemon slices
These sides keep the meal balanced and fresh, allowing the seafood blend to shine front and center. As Mama Lou used to say, “Let the sea speak for itself.”
Storage and Reheating Tips
While this trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe is best enjoyed fresh, I completely understand the need for leftovers—especially after a big family dinner. I remember packing up extra servings for my sister Ouma during her busy college days, knowing she’d appreciate a homemade, comforting meal waiting for her.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and keep the seafood tender.
- Avoid reheating in the microwave for long periods, as this can toughen the seafood and dry out the pasta.
- If freezing, separate pasta and seafood sauce, but I recommend fresh preparation for best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe?
The main ingredients for trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe?
The total time to make trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe ahead of time?
Yes, trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe?
trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
This trader joes seafood blend pasta recipe isn’t just about a meal—it’s a thread woven through my family’s story, a way to keep Mama Lou’s loving spirit alive in our kitchens. Every time I cook it, I think of the laughter Ouma and I shared over Mama’s tales, the way food brought us together, and how simple ingredients can create something truly special.
I hope this recipe becomes part of your family’s traditions too, a dish that comforts, delights, and reminds you of the joy found in both cooking and sharing. Because at the end of the day, food is love made visible, and this pasta is my way of sending you a warm, sea-scented hug from my heart to yours.
