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
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Slice the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles, a vegetable peeler for ribbons, or dice the zucchini into small cubes.
- Halve the Tomatoes: Slice the cherry or grape tomatoes in half to help them release their juices during cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt generously, then cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 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
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- 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
- 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.
- Simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the tomato and zucchini mixture.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time, to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta.
- 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
- Divide the pasta among serving plates and garnish with fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- 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