Indulge in a culinary delight that transports you straight to the sun-kissed coasts of Italy with our Garlic Shrimp and Fresh Tomato Pasta! This vibrant dish, bursting with the flavors of succulent shrimp, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic garlic, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Return shrimp to the skillet, add drained pasta, and toss everything together. If mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water.
- Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the dish and give a final gentle toss.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, garnishing with extra basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While spaghetti is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other pasta types like linguine or fettuccine for a different texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while cooking; they should turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a secret ingredient that can help bind the sauce and pasta together. Add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. The freshness elevates the dish and adds vibrant color.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty finish.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right after cooking to savor the flavors at their peak!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 180mg
