Imagine twirling your fork into a vibrant plate of perfectly grilled shrimp nestled among al dente spaghetti, bursting cherry tomatoes dancing with aromatic garlic, and fresh basil adding a pop of color and flavor. This Italian-inspired dish isn't just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy experience right in your own kitchen. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight feast, this Grilled Shrimp Tomato Pasta promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of spaghetti, 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp, 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh basil for garnish.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are well coated with the mixture.
- Once the grill is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the grill and set aside.
- In the same bowl used for the shrimp, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with a little more olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
- After the spaghetti is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- In the pot used for the pasta, return the drained spaghetti and add the grilled shrimp and cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together over medium heat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm everything through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious grilled shrimp tomato pasta!
Tips
- Shrimp Grilling Perfection: Always preheat your grill or grill pan to ensure beautiful char marks and prevent sticking. Cook shrimp just until they turn pink to maintain their tender, juicy texture.
- Pasta Water Magic: Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid helps create a silky sauce and helps ingredients cling together beautifully.
- Flavor Layering: Marinate shrimp in garlic and olive oil for at least 10 minutes before grilling to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes for maximum flavor. If possible, choose tomatoes that are slightly soft but not mushy.
- Timing is Key: Cook pasta and shrimp simultaneously to ensure everything is hot and perfectly cooked when you combine them.
- Optional Enhancements: For extra depth, consider adding a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 180mg
