Shrimp and Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Shrimp and creamy tomato basil pasta is a delightful dish that marries succulent shrimp with a rich, velvety sauce made from fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil. This comforting meal is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma, it transforms an ordinary dinner into a culinary experience that will leave everyone at the table smiling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds), then add canned tomatoes with juices; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, reduce heat, and let simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Add shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Cook until shrimp turns pink.
- Toss cooked pasta into the skillet; use reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: Swap shrimp for chicken or add vegetables like spinach for extra nutrition. For added spice, incorporate red pepper flakes during cooking.