Spaghetti with Mantis Shrimp

Spaghetti with mantis shrimp, also known as sea cicadas, is a refined seafood dish with a bold flavor. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients

• 320 g spaghetti
• 500 g mantis shrimp (sea cicadas)
• 1 garlic clove
• Chopped parsley to taste
• 200 ml dry white wine
• Extra virgin olive oil to taste
• Salt to taste
• Chili pepper (optional)

Preparation

1. Start by cleaning the mantis shrimp. Break the end of the shell and remove the intestine by pulling it gently. Then detach the head from the body and remove the shell that covers them. Rinse well under running water.
2. Sauté the garlic clove with extra virgin olive oil in a large pan. If you like, you can add a chili pepper to give the dish a spicy kick.
3. Add the mantis shrimp to the pan and sear them briefly.
4. Deglaze with the white wine and let the alcohol evaporate.
5. Add a ladle of water and cook the mantis shrimp for about 5-10 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente.
7. Drain the spaghetti and transfer them to the pan with the mantis shrimp, adding a little cooking water if needed to bind the sauce.
8. Toss them together for a few minutes over high heat so the pasta absorbs the flavors of the mantis shrimp sauce.
9. Off the heat, add fresh chopped parsley and mix well.

Fun Facts

Mantis shrimp, often underrated, are very flavorful crustaceans that greatly enhance any dish they’re added to. They are mainly caught in the waters of the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian Seas, but can also be found in other parts of the Mediterranean.

Remember that to bring out the sea flavor, it is essential to use top-quality and preferably fresh ingredients. Enjoy your meal!