Feeling intimidated in the kitchen? Trust me, you're not alone. Many of us have struggled with the idea of cooking at home, especially when it comes to something that seems complicated, like shrimp.

Start with the shrimp. You can buy it shelled and deveined, or do it yourself. Cut the shrimp into small pieces—about the size of a dime—and set aside 6 whole ones for presentation. Place all the ...

Garlic, anchovies, capers, olives, crushed red pepper and loads of tomato paste provide real oomph. By Sam Sifton Andy Baraghani’s spicy shrimp puttanesca.Credit...Rachel Vanni for The New York Times.