This Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is a tasty dish that comes together in no time! With juicy shrimp, fresh basil, and a quick tomato sauce, it’s bursting with flavor.
I love how this meal feels fancy but is super easy to whip up. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing friends without breaking a sweat. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using spaghetti or linguine, but you can easily swap in any pasta shape you love. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works too, making it a good choice for various dietary needs.
Shrimp: Large shrimp really make this dish satisfying. If you’re avoiding seafood, consider using chicken breast or even tofu to keep it just as delicious!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are convenient, but fresh tomatoes are great when they’re in season. If you love flavor, you could also use fire-roasted canned tomatoes for an extra kick.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that vibrant flavor. If you’re out, try a teaspoon of dried basil, but fresh really makes a difference!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice touch of creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp is quick, so pay attention to these tips. The key is not to overcook them, or they become rubbery.
- Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp, making sure not to overcrowd them. They need space to cook evenly!
- Cook for about 2 minutes on each side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove them right away from the pan to prevent cooking further.
Following these steps will ensure your shrimp are tender and delicious!
Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh diced tomatoes)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a few minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). When it’s done, drain the pasta but be sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Searing the Shrimp:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they’re pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sautĂ© for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Next, add the diced tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat!). Let the sauce simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes to thicken up a bit.
4. Finishing Up:
Stir in the freshly chopped basil and the lemon juice. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. Then, return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it’s just right.
5. Combining It All:
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix everything together until the pasta is well coated with that delicious sauce. If you want, you can sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese and give it a final toss.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is ready to be served! Plate it up and garnish with extra fresh basil and more Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your colorful and flavorful dish!
Bon Appétit!
FAQ for Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker defrosting.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh, so you’ll need less!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Pasta Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the shrimp with veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté the veggies until tender and then follow the rest of the recipe as directed!
