Italian Shrimp Pasta – A Quick, Flavorful, and Elegant Dish

This Italian Shrimp Pasta is the perfect combination of tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a zesty, garlicky sauce. The shrimp are sautéed with garlic, white wine, and a touch of Italian herbs, creating a flavorful base that coats the pasta beautifully. With just the right amount of acidity from tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this dish brings the taste of Italy straight to your table.

Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy. It’s quick, easy, and packed with vibrant Italian flavors.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes

• Packed with flavor – Fresh, zesty, and garlicky with a hint of spice

• Light yet satisfying – Perfect balance of shrimp, pasta, and a tangy sauce

• Customizable – Add veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition

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Ingredient Overview: What You’ll Need

Shrimp

Use peeled and deveined shrimp (tail-off for easier eating). Shrimp cooks quickly, making it the perfect protein for this dish.

Pasta

Choose spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine for the perfect pasta base. You can use gluten-free or low-carb pasta alternatives if needed.

Garlic

Fresh garlic is essential for the sauce, adding a rich, aromatic base to the dish.

Olive Oil & Butter

A combination of olive oil and unsalted butter provides the base for sautéing the shrimp and making the sauce rich and flavorful.

White Wine

A splash of dry white wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio) deglazes the pan and adds depth to the sauce. You can skip this or substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Cherry Tomatoes

Fresh, juicy cherry tomatoes add sweetness and acidity. If you don’t have fresh, you can use canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes.

Italian Herbs & Red Pepper Flakes

A blend of Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme) adds flavor complexity. Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Fresh Basil & Parmesan Cheese

Fresh basil adds a burst of freshness to the dish, while parmesan cheese brings a salty, savory finish.

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How to Make Italian Shrimp Pasta (Step-by-Step)

1. Cook the Pasta

• Cook 8 oz of pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice) according to package instructions.

• Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for the sauce.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

• In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.

• Add 1 lb shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

• Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add:

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

• Deglaze with ¼ cup white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

• Add 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) and cook for 3–4 minutes until they soften and release their juices.

4. Add Seasonings

• Stir in 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste.

• Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until the tomatoes break down slightly and the sauce thickens.

5. Combine Shrimp and Pasta

• Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta in the sauce.

• If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

6. Finish with Fresh Herbs

• Stir in fresh basil and ½ cup grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

7. Serve

Serve the Italian shrimp pasta hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Pasta

• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly, so be sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they’re opaque and tender.

• Reserve pasta water before draining—it’s starchy and helps to thin the sauce and make it silky.

• Use fresh, quality ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, and herbs for the best flavor.

Variations

• Veggie Addition: Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

• Spicy Shrimp: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

• Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier pasta.

Substitutions

• No white wine? Use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead.

• No shrimp? Substitute with scallops, chicken breast, or salmon.

• Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

• Dairy-Free? Skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners

• Date nights or special occasions

• Family meals that everyone will love

• Meal prep – Make the sauce and shrimp ahead of time and just reheat.

Pair with:

• A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze.

• Garlic bread or keto bread if you want something to soak up that delicious sauce.

• A glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to complement the dish.

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Nutritional & Health Benefits

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings total):

• Calories: 350–400

• Protein: 30–35g

• Fat: 15–20g

• Carbs: 30–35g (depending on pasta choice)

• Fiber: 3–4g (if using whole grain or veggie pasta)

Nutritional Highlights:

• Shrimp: Lean protein with low fat, and high in essential minerals like selenium and iodine.

• Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium.

• Olive oil: Healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health.

• Garlic and herbs: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties and immune-boosting benefits.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

The shrimp and sauce can be made ahead of time and stored separately in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat on the stove before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use linguine, fettuccine, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

3. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Simply add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free pasta, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Make sure to check the labels of any broths or sauces you use as well.

5. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture when cooking.

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