Shrimp and Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta is a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that brings the taste of summer right to your table! Picture succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection, mingling with juicy burst cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a light, zesty garlic and olive oil sauce. The addition of fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this pasta is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table. Dive in and savor every bite!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Shrimp and Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For boiling pasta.
- 1 Large skillet For sautéing ingredients.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb pound Shrimp A delicious source of protein that cooks quickly.
Vegetables
- 2 cups cups Burst cherry tomatoes Adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
- 3 cloves cloves Garlic Enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 tbsp tablespoons Olive oil A healthy fat for sautéing.
- 1/2 tsp teaspoon Red pepper flakes Adds a hint of heat.
- 1/4 cup cups Fresh basil Brings a fragrant, herbal note.
- 1/2 cup cups Parmesan cheese Adds a savory, nutty flavor.
Pasta
- 8 oz ounces Pasta Choose your favorite type.
Instructions
Preparation
- Collect fresh shrimp, burst cherry tomatoes, pasta of your choice, garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil.
Cooking Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Sautéing Garlic
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Adding Tomatoes
- Throw in the burst cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
Cooking Shrimp
- Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to combine, adding a splash of pasta water if needed.
Garnishing and Serving
- Finish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creation!
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh burst cherry tomatoes add a vibrant flavor explosion.
- Juicy shrimp provide a satisfying protein boost.
- Light and healthy, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices for a personal touch.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Course |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 15 minutes |
| Total Time: | 25 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free Option |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients for Shrimp and Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta
- Shrimp – a delicious source of protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
- Burst cherry tomatoes – adds a sweet and tangy flavor, perfect for a fresh pasta dish.
- Garlic – enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.
- Olive oil – a healthy fat that helps to sauté ingredients and adds richness.
- Red pepper flakes – adds a hint of heat to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Fresh basil – brings a fragrant, herbal note that brightens the dish.
- Parmesan cheese – adds a savory, nutty flavor that complements the pasta beautifully.
- Pasta – the base of the dish; choose your favorite type for the best texture.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Shrimp and Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta
Get ready to whip up a delightful dish that will make your taste buds dance!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect fresh shrimp, burst cherry tomatoes, pasta of your choice, garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes
Throw in the burst cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to combine, adding a splash of pasta water if needed.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips for Making the Shrimp and Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta
• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that smell like the ocean, not fishy.
• Sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness in your sauce.
• Add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar to brighten the dish just before serving.
• Cook the pasta al dente; it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• For extra flavor, toss in some fresh basil or parsley right before serving.
How to Serve Shrimp and Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta
Elevate your Shrimp and Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta experience with these delightful serving suggestions:
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- For a zesty twist, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Enjoy with a refreshing sparkling water infused with citrus.
- For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.
• Stir gently until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for Shrimp and Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta?
While you can use any pasta you love, spaghetti or linguine are fantastic choices. They hold the sauce well and complement the shrimp and tomatoes beautifully.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain their juicy texture.
What can I substitute for white wine in the recipe?
You can use chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice mixed with water. Both options add a nice depth of flavor without the alcohol.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust the amount to your spice preference for the perfect heat level!
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