This Easy Quick Shrimp and Tomato Pasta is a colorful dish that cooks up in no time! It’s packed with juicy shrimp, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of spice for that tasty kick.
You know it’s a winner when dinner is ready in a flash! I love serving it with a sprinkle of parmesan on top. It feels fancy, but really, it’s just super easy and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or linguine for this dish. They hold the sauce nicely. If you’re gluten-free, try rice or quinoa pasta instead.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works well too. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking. For a plant-based option, consider using chickpeas.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and juiciness. If out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them a bit to avoid excess liquid.
Basil: Fresh basil is my favorite for this dish, but dried basil is a handy substitute. If you have other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano, they can work too!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp perfectly can be tricky, but it’s all about timing! They cook super fast, so keep an eye on them.
- Before cooking, make sure your shrimp are thawed and dry. This helps them cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet to medium heat and add olive oil. Wait until it’s shimmering before adding shrimp.
- Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They are done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
Easy Quick Shrimp and Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 medium tomatoes, chopped)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. That means in less than half an hour, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember to save about 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later!
2. Prepare the Skillet:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Let it warm up for a minute or so.
3. Add Garlic and Shrimp:
Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it gets fragrant. Next, toss in the shrimp, seasoning them with a little salt, pepper, and those red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. After they’re done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Cook the Tomatoes:
Now, in the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to release their juices.
5. Combine Everything:
It’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the tomatoes. Then, toss in the drained pasta. Mix everything well, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the mixture seems too dry.
6. Final Touches:
Stir in the fresh basil and lemon juice (if you’re using it). Taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your delicious shrimp and tomato pasta immediately. If you want, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your meal!
This dish is not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or using a quick method by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before adding them to the skillet to prevent excess water in your dish!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, no worries! You can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead. Alternatively, other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano work well too and can add a nice flavor twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil before warming it on the stove or in the microwave to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! This pasta recipe is versatile. Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them along with the tomatoes until tender!
