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Tomato Zucchini Shrimp Pasta


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
  • 2 medium zucchini (spiralized, sliced into ribbons, or diced)
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes (halved)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 lb (450g) shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails on or off)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth, optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon capers

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Slice the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles, a vegetable peeler for ribbons, or dice the zucchini into small cubes.
  3. Halve the Tomatoes: Slice the cherry or grape tomatoes in half to help them release their juices during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt generously, then cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
  2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
  3. Stir in the zucchini and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 5: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

  1. If using, add white wine or chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  2. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the tomato and zucchini mixture.
  2. Gradually add reserved pasta water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time, to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta.
  3. Stir the shrimp back into the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, just until everything is warmed through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  1. Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
  2. For extra brightness, add a sprinkle of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate of pasta
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 28g