Embrace the flavors of Italy with this simple yet delicious recipe for Easy Italian Shrimp Pasta. This dish combines the succulent taste of shrimp with savory Italian herbs and spices, all tossed together with al dente pasta for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or need a quick weeknight dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to bring the taste of Italy right to your table!
### Easy Italian Shrimp Pasta
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Remember to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Make sure not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery.
4. Once the shrimp are cooked, add the can of diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and tomato sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Serve the Easy Italian Shrimp Pasta in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. The parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note, while the Parmesan cheese brings a salty umami richness to the dish.
7. Enjoy your delicious creation with a side salad, some crusty bread, or a glass of your favorite Italian wine. The combination of flavors in this dish is sure to transport you straight to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean.
Creating a gourmet meal at home doesn’t have to be complicated, and this Easy Italian Shrimp Pasta recipe proves just that. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can treat yourself to a taste of Italy any night of the week. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply enjoy Italian cuisine, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean without ever leaving your kitchen. Buon appetito!
