Andouille Sausage & Shrimp w/ Cream Sauce

This dish is very representative of my method. A very accommodating plate which can be adapted toward many tastes, dietary needs and occasions. See substitutions & suggestions below for some variations which I have adapted.

Ingredients (2 servings)
1/2 pound penne pasta    
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled, and deveined
1lb Andouille Sausage
                                       
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup olive oil                                                         

1/2 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper                        

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt                                           

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 (15-ounce) can diced seasoned tomato                 

1/2 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano

1 cup white wine (Pinot Griggio)
1/3 cup clam juice
3/4 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to boil, add pasta and cook until tender (8-10 min). Drain & set aside.

2. In skillet, heat oil med-high, add sausage, garlic, 1/2 tsp. salt & pepper (3min), add shrimp (3min)
3. Remove Shrimp and Sausage, add tomatoes, 1/4 cup basil, 1/4 cup parsley, and pepper flake.
4. Cook for 2 minutes to blend flavors while stirring
5. Add wine, clam juice and heavy cream. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to med-low till sauce thickens.
6. Add 1/4 cup of Parmesan, cooked shrimp and sausage, cooked pasta, and the remaining herbs.
7. Toss to coat, Season to taste with salt, pepper and red pepper flake
8. Serve in large bowl or soup plate. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and Basil and serve

Oven Baked Option
For a nice oven baked finish, mix together a blend of seasoned panko with Parmesan and top the dish with mixture. To prepare for this option, add an extra 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream and do not allow too much reduction during step 6. Place in oven till tops crisps. Caution! Hot plate!!

Substitutions & Suggestions
How you wish the dish to taste has much to do not only with the protein you add; but, also in the diced tomato. If you wish to prepare a "mac & cheese" dish, eliminate both while adding a grated cheddar blend. If you wish a nice kick, use a salsa blend diced tomato and add 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Another nice kick is adding 1/2 teaspoon of anchovy paste. In regards to the protein, go wild. Browned Italian sausage, mussels, clams, the dish can accommodate whatever you add.