This Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is a quick and tasty dish packed with juicy shrimp, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal fast!
The best part? It’s all done in one pot, which means fewer dishes to wash! I love topping it with a sprinkle of cheese for extra yumminess. Who doesn’t love a meal that’s simple and full of flavor?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using spaghetti or linguine for this dish; they’re great for holding the sauce. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, consider chickpea or lentil pasta instead. They work well too!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and are satisfying. If you’re watching your budget, feel free to use smaller shrimp or even chicken breast as a substitute.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes really brighten the dish! If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them well before adding to the skillet.
Basil: Fresh basil brings a wonderful aroma. If unavailable, try using dried basil, but go lighter on the amount since dried herbs are stronger. About one teaspoon will do!
Parmesan Cheese: I love adding Parmesan for extra flavor. If you’re dairy-free or vegan, nutritional yeast is a great alternative that gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky; undercooked or overcooked shrimp can both be a letdown. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic first. This helps flavor the oil.
- Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season well with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice pink color, and they should curl slightly.
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re opaque. Overcooking makes them rubbery!
By keeping an eye on shrimp and not crowding the pan, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked shrimp every time! Enjoy your pasta dish with confidence!
How to Make Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 medium tomatoes, diced)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (still slightly firm). Remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta—this will help make your sauce creamy later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic smells wonderful, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the Shrimp:
Now, toss in the shrimp and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside—this will keep them perfectly tender!
4. Cook the Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add in the halved cherry tomatoes. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their juices. This will create a delicious base for your sauce!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Next, add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together so the pasta is well-coated with the flavorful tomato juices. This is where the magic happens!
6. Mix in the Shrimp and Basil:
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the chopped basil and gently toss everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Finish off the Dish:
For a zesty touch, squeeze half a lemon over the pasta just before serving. If you like, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. It’s all about what makes your taste buds happy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta immediately. Enjoy the delightful flavors, and feel proud of your quick and tasty creation!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before adding them to the skillet for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No problem! You can use dried basil instead; however, it has a more concentrated flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and add it while cooking the tomatoes for the best infusion of flavor. Keep in mind that fresh basil really brightens the dish!
How to Store Leftover Pasta?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or a little olive oil to refresh the dish and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you like more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce when mixing everything together. Just adjust to your heat preference!
