Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta

Life can get hectic, and sometimes the last thing you want to do after a long day is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta recipe comes to the rescue. Honestly, this has become a staple in our household. Even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes, and it always feels like a comforting, restaurant-quality meal. My family absolutely devours it – even my picky eaters who usually turn their noses up at anything remotely “fancy” ask for seconds! The vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil perfectly complement the succulent shrimp, all tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s light, flavorful, and satisfying without being heavy, making it perfect for any season. If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty meal that will impress everyone at your table, look no further. This recipe is a guaranteed winner!

Ingredients: Freshness is Key to Flavor

• Pasta: 1 pound of your favorite pasta shape (linguine, spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work exceptionally well). Choose a high-quality pasta for the best texture and flavor.
• Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp, ensuring they are thawed properly if using frozen.
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil. This forms the base of our flavorful sauce and adds richness to the dish.
• Garlic: 4 cloves of garlic, minced. Freshly minced garlic provides the best aromatic punch.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: 28 ounces of high-quality canned diced tomatoes, undrained. Look for brands known for their flavor and vibrant color.
• Fresh Basil: 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped. Fresh basil is crucial for that signature aroma and flavor.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. This intensifies the tomato flavor and adds depth to the sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat). Adjust to your spice preference or omit entirely.
• Dry White Wine: ½ cup of dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) (optional). Wine adds complexity and acidity to the sauce. Chicken broth can be substituted if preferred.
• Salt: To taste. Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Adds a subtle spice and depth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional). Adds a salty, savory finish.

Instructions: Simple Steps to Pasta Perfection

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. “Al dente” means “to the tooth” in Italian, indicating pasta that is cooked through but still firm to bite. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is essential for creating a silky sauce. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Deglaze with White Wine (Optional): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet. Increase the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This process, called deglazing, adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, concentrating its flavors. If omitting wine, simply proceed to the next step.
4. Add Tomato Paste and Cook: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Cooking the tomato paste deepens its flavor and removes any raw taste. Ensure it’s well incorporated into the garlic and oil mixture.
5. Add Diced Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained) and their juices. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed during simmering.
6. Cook the Shrimp: While the sauce is simmering, prepare the shrimp. Ensure the shrimp is peeled, deveined, and patted dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely and prevents steaming. Once the sauce has simmered for about 15-20 minutes, increase the heat to medium. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and tomato sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce and create a silky, glossy coating.
8. Stir in Fresh Basil: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh basil. The heat from the pasta and sauce will gently wilt the basil, releasing its fragrant aroma.
9. Serve Immediately: Serve the Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta immediately while it’s hot and flavorful. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese (if desired) and extra fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts: A Light and Wholesome Meal (Per Serving)

(Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories
• Protein: 30-35 grams

This dish provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Shrimp is a lean protein source, and the tomato-based sauce is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Choosing whole wheat pasta can further increase the fiber content.

Preparation Time: From Prep to Plate in Under 30 Minutes

This Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is truly a weeknight wonder! The total preparation time, from start to finish, is approximately 25-30 minutes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (chopping garlic, basil, peeling shrimp, etc.)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (cooking pasta, sautéing garlic, simmering sauce, cooking shrimp)

This quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table fast. The simplicity of the steps also means even beginner cooks can easily master this recipe.

How to Serve: Elevate Your Pasta Experience

This Easy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to make it a complete and delightful meal:

• Side Salad: Serve with a fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette would complement the pasta perfectly.
• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Accompany the pasta with warm garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up the flavorful tomato sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
• White Wine Pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Vermentino to enhance the seafood flavors and complement the tomato sauce.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the pasta just before serving. The bright acidity of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
• Fresh Herbs Garnish: Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for visual appeal and added flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to add as much as they like.
• Appetizer: Start with a light appetizer like bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil, or a simple Caprese salad to continue the Italian theme.

Additional Tips: Unlock the Secrets to Perfect Shrimp Pasta

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery and loses its delicate flavor. Cook just until pink and opaque. Err on the side of slightly undercooked, as they will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot pasta and sauce.
2. Use High-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of your canned diced tomatoes significantly impacts the flavor of the sauce. Opt for brands known for their rich tomato flavor and vibrant color. San Marzano tomatoes are a popular choice for their sweetness and low acidity.
3. Fresh Basil is a Must: Dried basil cannot replicate the fresh, vibrant aroma and flavor of fresh basil. Use fresh basil for the best results. Add it at the very end of cooking to preserve its fresh flavor and bright green color.
4. Salt Your Pasta Water Generously: Salting the pasta water is crucial for seasoning the pasta itself from the inside out. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of salt per gallon of water. The water should taste like the sea.
5. Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve pasta water before draining! This starchy water is a secret weapon for creating a silky, emulsified sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
6. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. For a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
7. Add a Touch of Creaminess (Optional): For a richer, creamier sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the very end, just before adding the basil. This will add a luxurious touch to the pasta.
8. Make it Ahead (Partially): You can make the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and shrimp, and then combine everything. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes, absolutely! Frozen shrimp is a convenient and budget-friendly option. Make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to place them in a colander under cool running water for a few minutes or to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure they brown nicely.

Q2: Can I substitute dried basil for fresh basil?

A: While fresh basil is highly recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. If using dried basil, use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil. Add the dried basil to the sauce earlier in the cooking process to allow it to rehydrate and release its flavor. However, keep in mind that the flavor will be less vibrant than fresh basil.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

A: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp. You can add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for added substance. To make it vegan, omit the shrimp and Parmesan cheese. You can also use a plant-based Parmesan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Q4: What other types of pasta can I use?

A: This recipe is versatile and works well with various pasta shapes. Linguine, spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, and bucatini are all excellent choices. Consider pasta shapes that hold sauce well. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this pasta?

A: Yes, definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables to this pasta to customize it to your liking. Some great additions include:

• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add sweetness and burst of flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers add sweetness and crunch.
• Zucchini: Sliced or diced zucchini adds a mild flavor and tender texture.
• Spinach or Arugula: Add a handful of spinach or arugula at the very end for a boost of greens.
• Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add an earthy flavor and meaty texture.

Q6: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: It’s best to serve this pasta fresh for the best texture and flavor. However, you can make the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and shrimp, and then combine everything. Reheating the entire dish is not recommended as the pasta can become mushy and the shrimp can become overcooked.

Q7: How do I store leftover tomato basil shrimp pasta?

A: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Microwaving is also an option, but the texture may be slightly less optimal.

Q8: Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

A: Yes, you can experiment with other types of cheese. Pecorino Romano cheese is a good alternative to Parmesan, offering a saltier and sharper flavor. Fresh mozzarella balls or crumbled feta cheese can also be added for a different texture and flavor profile. Consider cheeses that complement tomato and basil flavors.

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