Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Shrimp Pasta
- Impressive Yet Simple: Looks gourmet but is super approachable for any home cook.
- Rich and Creamy: The velvety sauce coats every strand of pasta.
- Bursting with Flavor: Garlic, sundried tomatoes, and fresh basil combine for a delightful Mediterranean flair.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!
Tools You’ll Need
- Tongs or pasta fork: To toss the pasta with the sauce.
- Large skillet: For making the sauce.
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
Tuscan Shrimp Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Bring the flavors of Tuscany to your table with this creamy, indulgent Tuscan Shrimp Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes. Packed with juicy shrimp, tangy sundried tomatoes, and a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight treat or an elegant dinner party centerpiece.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne (your choice)
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (use oil from the sundried tomatoes jar for extra flavor)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, then sauté the garlic and sundried tomatoes for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, if the sauce needs to loosen.
- Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Use High-Quality Sundried Tomatoes: For the best flavor, use tomatoes packed in oil.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Experiment with Pasta: Use your favorite shape—short, long, or even gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q2: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus make great additions. Add them to the sauce before the shrimp.
Conclusion: A Taste of Tuscany at Home
This Tuscan Shrimp Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes combines creamy comfort with bold, fresh flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 540
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fat: 27g
Did you make this recipe? Share your creation on social media and tag us! Enjoy every creamy, savory bite.
