Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta: 7 Steps to Deliciousness

Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta has become a go-to dish in my kitchen, thanks to its vibrant flavors and simplicity. This dish features succulent shrimp cooked to perfection with a rich, garlicky cherry tomato sauce infused with fennel seeds and red pepper flakes. Tossed with al dente spaghetti and fresh basil, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful meal!

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta

This shrimp pasta with cherry tomatoes offers a multitude of benefits that make it a favorite:

• Quick to prepare, taking only 50 minutes from start to finish.
• Health-conscious, featuring low-calorie ingredients and fresh produce.
• Versatile; perfect for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.
• Flavor-packed with garlic, fennel, and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.
• Easy to customize—add your favorite veggies or spices!
• Ideal for meal prep; store leftovers easily for future meals.
• Perfect for seafood lovers craving a delicious pasta dish.
• Enjoyable for everyone, making it a family-friendly recipe.

Ingredients for Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta

Gather these items:

• 1 pound peeled and deveined frozen shrimp (16/20-count), thawed and cut into thirds
• Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal), 1 teaspoon for shrimp seasoning
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (for cooking shrimp)
• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 large garlic cloves, gently smashed with the flat side of a knife
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon red-pepper flakes, or to taste
• 2 pounds cherry tomatoes, larger ones halved, small ones kept whole
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Handful of basil leaves, torn

How to Make Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the thawed shrimp with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Cook shrimp for about 3 minutes until just cooked through. Transfer shrimp to a separate dish and set aside.
2. Step 2: Add the remaining 6 tablespoons of olive oil and smashed garlic to the skillet. Cook over medium-low heat until garlic is light golden and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Add fennel seeds and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until aromatic.
3. Step 3: Increase heat to medium. Add halved and whole cherry tomatoes along with 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt. Cook until tomatoes release juices and form a saucy consistency, about 25 to 30 minutes.
4. Step 4: While the tomato sauce cooks, bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, about 10 minutes.
5. Step 5: Transfer cooked shrimp back into the tomato sauce to warm for a couple of minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Step 6: Using tongs, transfer cooked spaghetti into the skillet with tomato and shrimp sauce. Add reserved pasta cooking water if needed for sauce consistency.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat. Add torn basil leaves and toss to combine. Season with black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta

Keep these in mind:

• Use fresh shrimp for better flavor.
• Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
• Reserve pasta water for a creamier sauce.
• Try adding lemon juice for a zesty twist, perfect for lemon garlic shrimp cherry tomato pasta.

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta

Enjoy this dish:

• With a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Sprinkled with Parmesan cheese for added richness.
• As a quick shrimp and cherry tomato dish for lunch the next day.

How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture. This dish is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well for a few days!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors—ensure the garlic is fragrant but not burnt, and cook the tomatoes until they’re juicy to create a rich sauce. This balance is key for a healthy shrimp tomato pasta recipe.

Can I make Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and pasta ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge and combine them right before serving for freshness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta?

Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be just cooked through for the best texture. Also, don’t rush the tomato sauce—allow it to develop its flavors fully for a delicious outcome.

Variations of Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta You Can Try

Here are some variations to keep things interesting:

• Creamy shrimp cherry tomato fettuccine: Add cream for a rich sauce.
• Easy shrimp cherry tomato linguine: Swap spaghetti for linguine for a different texture.
• Shrimp and cherry tomato penne: Use penne for a fun shape.
• One-pot shrimp cherry tomato pasta: Cook everything in one pot for easy cleanup.

Whether you prefer a classic or a twist, this shrimp cherry tomato pasta is bound to delight your taste buds.

For more information about cooking techniques, visit About Me or check out our Contact Us page for any inquiries. You can also read our Privacy Policy for more details on how we handle your data. If you’re interested in more recipes, visit our author page.

For additional insights on the health benefits of shrimp, you can refer to Healthline.

Print