Garlic Shrimp & Tomato Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Shrimp & Tomato Pasta recipe is the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. The shrimp are cooked to perfection, with a delightful garlic and spice kick from the red pepper flakes. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while the fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese offer an herbaceous finish. It’s a light yet hearty dish that’s ready in less than 30 minutes, making it the ideal choice for busy nights when you still want something flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti (cooked)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined, about 20)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup natural apple juice (no sugar added)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
• Fresh grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• 3 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
• Kosher salt (to taste)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with kosher salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Deglaze with Apple Juice and Lemon Juice: Pour in the apple juice and lemon juice, stirring to combine and deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
5. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the sliced cherry tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
6. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if necessary to help coat the pasta in the sauce.
7. Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more veggies in this dish.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the sauce for an extra burst of lemon flavor.
• Different Pasta: Swap spaghetti for any pasta you prefer, such as linguine, penne, or fettuccine.
• Creamy Sauce: For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese when deglazing the pan.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water or broth to help loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This dish works well with any pasta shape, such as linguine, penne, or fettuccine. Feel free to use your favorite.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should also curl into a “C” shape when fully cooked. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or even peas to the dish for extra flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients (such as chopping the vegetables and peeling the shrimp) ahead of time to save some time on the day of cooking.

Can I substitute the apple juice with another liquid?

If you prefer, you can substitute the apple juice with white wine, vegetable broth, or chicken broth for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of fresh tomatoes?

Yes, you can use a store-bought tomato sauce in place of the cherry tomatoes if you prefer a more robust tomato flavor. Just reduce the sauce slightly to thicken it.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

If you don’t like spicy food, you can omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount to suit your taste.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, grated Parmesan is a great addition to this dish, but you could also use pecorino or any other cheese you like.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp & Tomato Pasta is a perfect balance of flavors that’s easy to prepare and full of delicious ingredients. The combination of garlic, fresh tomatoes, and tangy lemon makes every bite burst with flavor, while the shrimp adds a touch of sweetness and depth. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to please. It’s a quick, vibrant, and satisfying meal that will become a regular in your rotation.

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