Imagine the vibrant sizzle as plump, pink shrimp meet a hot grill, releasing a tantalizing aroma that melds with the zesty scent of lemon and fresh basil.
The pasta, perfectly al dente, is swirled with juicy cherry tomatoes and a touch of red pepper flakes, creating a comforting symphony of flavors and textures.
This Grilled Shrimp Pasta holds a special place in my heart; it’s a go-to dish when I want to serve something that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
On busy weeknights, when time is tight but the desire for a delicious meal is strong, or during relaxed Sunday suppers with family, this recipe shines.
I recall a hectic evening when this dish saved the day, bringing smiles to my family’s faces and warmth to the table.
Ready? Let’s cook this delightful Italian favorite together!
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with fresh basil, garlic, and lemon juice.
- Cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Uses pantry staples like pasta and olive oil for convenience.
- Offers a healthy protein boost with grilled shrimp.
- Customizable with additional veggies like spinach or zucchini.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp — peeled and deveined for convenience
- 8 ounces pasta — choose fettuccine or linguine for best results
- 2 tablespoons olive oil — opt for extra virgin for richer flavor
- 3 cloves garlic — mince finely for even distribution
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes — adjust for desired heat
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes — halve for even cooking
- 1/4 cup fresh basil — chop just before use for freshness
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese — grate finely for easy melting
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice — freshly squeezed enhances taste
- Salt — to taste, ideally sea salt for added depth
- Black pepper — freshly ground for ideal aroma
Step-by-Step Method
Preheat the Grill
Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure that the grill is adequately heated to prevent the shrimp from sticking. A hot grill will give the shrimp a nice char and enhance their flavor.
Use this time to gather all other ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe.
Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the pasta reaches al dente, typically in about 8-10 minutes, drain it using a colander. Set it aside for later use. This step is vital for maintaining the texture of the pasta in the final dish.
Season and Grill the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Place the shrimp on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the grill and set aside, keeping them warm.
Sauté Garlic and Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 1-2 minutes. Stir continuously to prevent burning. This will infuse the oil with a fragrant, spicy aroma that forms the base of the dish.
Soften the Cherry Tomatoes
Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic and pepper flakes.
Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally to guarantee even cooking. This step adds freshness and sweetness to the pasta dish.
Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta and grilled shrimp to the skillet with the tomatoes.
Toss all ingredients together to combine thoroughly. The pasta should be evenly coated with the garlic and tomato mixture. Confirm the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the dish for balanced flavors.
Stir in Cheese and Lemon
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.
Mix well to confirm the cheese melts and the lemon juice is evenly distributed. This step enhances the dish with a creamy texture and a zesty finish. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Rest the Pasta
Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more harmonious dish. During this time, the sauce thickens slightly, and the pasta absorbs more of the flavors. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the pasta with gluten-free fettuccine or linguine.
- To make it dairy-free, replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- If shrimp isn’t available or preferred, try using grilled chicken or tofu as a protein substitute.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Fresh spinach or arugula can be added in place of or in addition to the basil for extra greens.
You Must Know
- Preheat Thoroughly: Verify the grill or grill pan is hot before adding the shrimp to prevent sticking and achieve a nice sear.
- Salt the Pasta Water: Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water before cooking the pasta for peak flavor absorption.
- Grill Quickly: Cook the shrimp for only 2-3 minutes on each side to maintain their tenderness and prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your heat preference, as they add a spicy kick to the dish.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Serving Tips
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for balance.
- Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures.
- Add a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Grilled Shrimp Pasta can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
For make-ahead convenience, prepare the pasta and shrimp separately. Then, combine before serving.
The dish doesn’t freeze well due to the texture changes in shrimp and pasta upon thawing.
Reheating
To gently reheat Grilled Shrimp Pasta, use the microwave at low power.
Use the oven at 300°F covered with foil.
Alternatively, use a stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain moisture.
Italian Dining Traditions
When you sit down to an Italian meal, you’re not just enjoying food; you’re partaking in a centuries-old tradition that celebrates togetherness and the joy of dining.
I remember my first meal in Italy, surrounded by locals who were lively, gesturing with forks and wine glasses, telling stories with every bite. Meals are an event, a time to savor not just the flavors, but the company and conversation.
Italian dining is about simplicity and genuine ingredients, much like our grilled shrimp pasta. Each dish tells a story, often passed down through generations, and is crafted with love.
As you twirl the pasta around your fork, imagine the Italian countryside, where every meal is a cherished ritual, bringing people closer together.
Final Thoughts
We hope you’ll give this delicious Grilled Shrimp Pasta a try and see how it becomes a favorite in your kitchen! Feel free to tweak the recipe to your liking by adding extra veggies or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make certain they’re fully thawed beforehand. I once made this dish with frozen shrimp and it turned out delicious. Thaw them under cold water, and they grill beautifully. Enjoy!
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
I’ve made this dish gluten-free by swapping regular pasta with gluten-free options, like rice or quinoa pasta. It’s just as delicious and brings back memories of sunny Italian kitchens. Give it a try and enjoy!
What Wine Pairs Well With Grilled Shrimp Pasta?
I’ve found that a crisp Pinot Grigio beautifully complements the dish’s flavors. Its bright notes harmonize with lemon juice and fresh basil. Once, a friend brought a bottle, and it elevated our meal to perfection.
Can I Prepare This Dish Without a Grill?
Absolutely, you can! I’ve swapped the grill for a hot skillet before, and it works wonders. Just sear the shrimp until they’re golden and succulent. I love how it fills my kitchen with mouthwatering aromas!
Is This Dish Suitable for a Low-Carb Diet?
I’d say this dish isn’t the best for a low-carb diet due to the pasta. However, swapping the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice could transform it into a delightful, low-carb culinary experience. Enjoy experimenting!
Grilled Shrimp Pasta
Equipment
- 1 Grill or Grill Pan
- 1 Large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 large skillet
- 1 Tongs
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 ounce pasta such as fettuccine or linguine
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and basil to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
