Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta

Name: Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Corner

I recently stumbled upon a recipe for Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta that truly impressed me. It combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the fresh aroma of basil, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The simplicity of preparation allows the ingredients to shine without overwhelming complexity. As someone who enjoys quick yet elegant meals, this dish quickly became a favorite of mine. It's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings, making it a versatile addition to my repertoire.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:25:37.501Z

When I first made Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly everything came together. I sautéed garlic in olive oil, which is always a great start to any pasta dish. The key is to not overcook the shrimp—they should be perfectly pink and juicy when you add them to the pasta, ensuring they don’t become rubbery.

To elevate the flavor, I opted for fresh basil instead of dried. This little detail made a huge difference, adding a vibrant freshness that truly brightened the dish. If you're looking for a simple yet impressive meal, this pasta is a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare without sacrificing flavor
Fresh ingredients create a vibrant dish
Perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The star of this Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta is undoubtedly the freshness of its ingredients. Ripe cherry tomatoes not only bring sweetness but also a burst of color. When gently sautéed, they soften and release their juices, enhancing the dish's overall richness. It's vital to choose tomatoes that are firm yet slightly yielding to the touch, indicating ripeness. If cherry tomatoes aren't available, you could substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced Roma tomatoes, adjusting cooking time accordingly since larger pieces take longer to break down.

Fresh basil elevates this dish further, imparting a fragrant herby aroma that complements the sweet shrimp and tangy tomatoes. For best results, tear the basil leaves rather than chopping them, as this preserves their delicate essential oils. If fresh basil is unavailable, you could use a teaspoon of dried basil, although it won't provide the same vibrancy. Keep in mind that whenever you substitute dried herbs for fresh, you should use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Cooking Technique Tips

Cooking the shrimp is a crucial step that can make or break this dish. Ensure that the skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp; a medium heat is recommended. Too low of a temperature will cause the shrimp to steam rather than sauté, resulting in a rubbery texture. You'll know they are ready when they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. If you're unsure, use a meat thermometer—shrimp is perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 120°F.

Another technique to consider is the timing of adding the pasta to the sauce. By tossing the spaghetti directly into the skillet with the tomatoes and shrimp, you're allowing the pasta to absorb some of the flavorful sauce, creating a cohesive dish with a wonderful texture. If the dish seems dry after combining, don’t hesitate to add the reserved pasta water gradually. This starchy water helps to emulsify the sauce, making it silkier and more luxurious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your culinary adventure.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta.

Cook the spaghetti

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine ingredients

Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Toss in the cooked spaghetti, fresh basil, and some reserved pasta water to create a sauce. Mix well to combine all the flavors evenly.

Serve

Serve warm with grated Parmesan on top, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese also enhances the overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your pasta dish further, consider pairing it with a light arugula salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. The peppery notes of arugula balance the sweetness of the shrimp and tomatoes, making for a well-rounded meal. You could also serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying texture contrast; it's perfect for soaking up the remaining sauce.

If you're looking to impress guests, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest just before serving. This brightens the dish and adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the olive oil and Parmesan. A few toasted pine nuts or walnuts can also provide an unexpected crunchy element, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating

While this Shrimp Tomato Basil Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on a low flame, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to prevent the dish from drying out. It's best to avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can lead to overcooked shrimp and a gummy texture.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the shrimp and preparing the tomato sauce while leaving the pasta uncooked until just before serving. By doing so, you can ensure the pasta is perfectly al dente and retains its texture. This approach allows for a quick assembly when you're ready to enjoy your meal, making it an easy option for dinner parties or busy weeknights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?

Yes, you can, but fresh basil adds a distinctive flavor that dried herbs can't replicate.

→ What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Spaghetti works best, but you can also use linguine or fettuccine.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance and cook when ready.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with sautéed vegetables or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.