This Easy Italian Shrimp Pasta is a quick and yummy dish, perfect for busy nights! Juicy shrimp, garlic, and sweet tomatoes come together with pasta in a delightful way.
Honestly, who can resist garlic? It makes everything taste better! I love how this recipe is ready in just 30 minutes. Serve it with some crusty bread and enjoy! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like spaghetti for this recipe, but any pasta works! You could use linguine, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time based on package instructions.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is great, but you can also use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are thawed before adding them to the skillet. If you’d rather have a different protein, cooked chicken or even sautéed mushrooms would be excellent substitutes!
Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t in season, you could use canned diced tomatoes instead. They’re a good option and add a lovely sauce texture. Just drain some of the liquid if they seem too watery.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could work. Use about 1/4 tsp for every clove of fresh garlic.
Fresh Basil: I love fresh basil for its bright flavor. If you don’t have any, dried basil is fine, too. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead of a quarter cup of fresh.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! The key is to watch their color closely. When they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Here’s how to do this right:
- Heat olive oil over medium heat and add garlic first.
- Once the garlic is fragrant, gently add shrimp to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip them to cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if needed.
- Remove them from the heat as soon as they’re cooked. Shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked!
With these tips, your shrimp will come out perfectly every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🍤
Easy Italian Shrimp Pasta with Garlic and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Finishing Touches:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a fantastic meal ready in just about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your spaghetti (or chosen pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta!
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like a little heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Adding the Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until they soften and start to release their juices. This will create a lovely sauce!
5. Bringing It All Together:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the tomatoes. Add the lemon juice and stir everything together. It smells amazing, right?
6. Mixing in the Pasta:
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp and tomatoes, mixing well. If the mixture seems a little dry, gently add some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
7. Finishing Touches:
Finally, stir in the freshly chopped basil. This adds a burst of flavor! Taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
8. Serving:
Serve your delightful shrimp pasta hot, sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Dig in and enjoy your homemade Italian masterpiece!
Buon appetito! Enjoy your flavorful, homemade Italian shrimp pasta! 🍝
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Let them sit in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before seasoning for better texture!
What If I Don’t Have Cherry Tomatoes?
No problem! You can substitute with canned diced tomatoes for a similar flavor. Drain some excess liquid before adding them to the skillet, and adjust cooking time if needed to ensure they are heated through.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper. For an extra spicy kick, you could also add sliced fresh jalapeños or serve with a drizzle of hot sauce on top!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to help with moisture. Enjoy within a few days for the best taste!
