Light Roasted Tomato Shrimp Pasta

This light roasted cherry tomato shrimp pasta is my go-to on busy weeknights when I want something comforting yet vibrant The sweetness of burst cherry tomatoes mixes perfectly with tender shrimp and pasta for a meal that feels both indulgent and fresh

The first time I made this my kitchen smelled incredible and my friends kept sneaking bites straight from the pan before it even made it to the table

Ingredients

• Linguine pasta: adds the right amount of bite and stands up well to the shrimp Choose an Italian brand for the best texture
• Shrimp: brings lean protein and subtle briny flavor Use fresh or quality frozen peeled and deveined shrimp for ease
• Cherry tomatoes: roast into juicy bursts of sweetness Opt for firm ripe tomatoes for max flavor
• Garlic: sliced thin infuses the sauce as it roasts Look for firm cloves without green sprouts
• Olive oil: ties everything together and helps caramelize the tomatoes Choose a good extra virgin olive oil for deep flavor
• Fresh basil: finishes with color and a peppery lift Use whole leaves or torn right before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic:

Arrange cherry tomatoes and sliced garlic on a baking tray Drizzle with olive oil and toss everything to coat Roast in a preheated oven at 400 F for about twenty minutes until tomatoes are blistered and releasing their juices

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil Add the linguine and cook until al dente which usually takes about ten minutes Reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining

Sauté the Shrimp:

While the pasta cooks heat a skillet over medium heat Add a drizzle of olive oil and the shrimp Lay them in a single layer and cook for two minutes per side until pink and opaque careful not to overcook

Combine and Finish:

Add the drained pasta back to the pot Pour in all the roasted tomatoes garlic and their oil Toss in the shrimp and a splash of reserved pasta water Stir gently to coat everything The pasta should glisten with the tomato juices

Garnish and Serve:

Plate the pasta and scatter fresh basil leaves on top Add chili flakes if you like some heat Serve immediately for the best texture

Save

This dish always has me craving summer Even out of season the roasted tomatoes remind me of my grandmother’s sun drenched garden lunches with laughter and the scent of basil in the air

Storage Tips

This pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days The flavors actually deepen as it sits but wait to add basil until serving to keep it fresh Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap spaghetti or fettuccine for linguine if those are what you have Medium shell pasta also works If you have grape tomatoes instead of cherry those will roast just as nicely For a meat free version leave out the shrimp and double the tomatoes using white beans for protein

Save

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad dressed simply with olive oil lemon and black pepper Crusty bread helps soak up every bit of the tomato and garlic oil I also like pairing a dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio

Cultural and Historical Context

Shrimp pasta is a beloved dish throughout the Mediterranean where fresh seafood and olive oil are cornerstones of regional cooking Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sugars a technique Italian home cooks have used for generations when making quick pasta sauces

Recipe FAQs

→ Can frozen shrimp be used?

Yes, simply thaw the shrimp fully and pat dry before sautéing to ensure they cook evenly and remain tender.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Linguine is ideal, but spaghetti or fettuccine can be substituted for similar texture and bite.

→ How can I add more spice?

Sprinkle chili flakes over the tomatoes before roasting, or toss them in with the shrimp for gentle heat.

→ Are there dairy-free garnish alternatives?

Fresh basil adds flavor and color without dairy, while parsley or arugula work well for variety.

→ How do I prevent overcooking shrimp?

Sauté shrimp only until pink and opaque, usually about 2–3 minutes, to keep them tender and juicy.

→ Can whole wheat pasta be used?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta offers a nutty flavor and extra fiber, pairing well with tomato and shrimp.