This Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a fun dish with tender shrimp, zesty garlic, and juicy burst tomatoes. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor that will make your taste buds dance!
I love how the shrimp cooks so fast, and the tomatoes pop with sweetness! Serve with a sprinkle of cheese for extra yum. You might want to make extra—because it’s that good! 🍤🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually go for spaghetti or linguine. Both are great choices, but you can also try fettuccine or even a gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect here, but feel free to use medium or even smaller shrimp. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider substituting with mushrooms or zucchini to add a nice texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These juicy little gems burst with flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use diced regular tomatoes. Just be sure to cook them down a bit longer to break them down.
White Wine: This adds depth, but it’s totally optional. If you want to skip it, a bit of vegetable broth or just extra lemon juice will work well too!
Butter: I love the richness it adds, but you can use olive oil instead if you prefer a dairy-free option.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s all about timing. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a hot skillet. Medium-high heat is ideal for a nice sear.
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and chili flakes before adding them to the pan. This gives them a wonderful flavor.
- Cook for just 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp becomes tough!
Once cooked, set the shrimp aside to keep them tender. You can add them back to the dish towards the end to maintain that juicy texture.
Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Burst Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Juice of half a lemon
For Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 5 minutes on prep work—like chopping and measuring—and the cooking will take about 20 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help bind the sauce later!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the hot oil, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and half of the red chili flakes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Burst the Tomatoes:
Next, add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir occasionally, cooking them until they start to burst and release their juices—this should take about 4-5 minutes. Their natural sweetness will mix beautifully with the garlic.
5. Add the Wine (if using):
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the skillet now. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce slightly. This step enhances the flavor and gives the dish a nice depth.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the butter, lemon juice, remaining chili flakes, and chopped parsley. Toss everything together gently until well combined—this will help infuse the flavors into the shrimp.
7. Toss in the Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything to make sure the pasta is coated in the delicious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water gradually to loosen it up until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Season and Serve:
Give it all a taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or chili flakes if you like it spicier. Serve your spicy garlic shrimp pasta immediately, topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley for that pop of color!
Enjoy your vibrant and spicy garlic shrimp pasta with burst tomatoes! This dish is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet!
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. Adding a splash of lemon juice can also help mimic that zesty flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the regular pasta with a gluten-free pasta option, and it will work beautifully. Just follow the cooking instructions on the packaging, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking time!
