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
Scale
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