Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner that won't keep you chained to the stove all evening? Look no further! This shrimp pasta with vegetables recipe is your answer. Packed with flavor, vibrant colors, and plenty of nutrients, it's the perfect quick meal for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch. This recipe is a testament to how simple homemade cooking can be, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. It's one of those best recipes that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and zucchini and cook for 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the shrimp.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and vegetables. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the basil and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Enjoy! Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Pasta:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook it just until it turns pink and opaque.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or sausage to the pasta.
Variations:
- Lemon Shrimp Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the skillet along with the shrimp.
- Creamy Shrimp Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end.
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy recipe for shrimp pasta with vegetables is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It's adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. This healthy meal is sure to impress your family and friends, proving that quick dinner ideas can also be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish!