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Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta: 7 Steps to Deliciousness

Shrimp Cherry Tomato Pasta

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This Shrimp and Tomato Pasta features succulent shrimp cooked with a rich, garlicky cherry tomato sauce infused with fennel and red pepper flakes. It’s served with al dente spaghetti and fresh basil for a delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

  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. 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. 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. 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. Transfer cooked shrimp back into the tomato sauce to warm for a couple of minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  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. Remove from heat. Add torn basil leaves and toss to combine. Season with black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp for better flavor.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
  • Reserve pasta water for a creamier sauce.

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