Dive into a culinary adventure with our Sun Dried Tomato Balsamic Shrimp Pasta, a dish that effortlessly combines the rich flavors of Italy with the succulent taste of perfectly cooked shrimp. In just 35 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends, leaving them craving more. This vibrant and savory pasta dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with fresh ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup sun dried tomatoes
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of pasta, 1 cup of sun dried tomatoes, 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh basil for garnish.
- Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the shrimp. In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sun dried tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Stir well to combine and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sun dried tomatoes and balsamic mixture.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Remove the skillet from heat, taste, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the pasta warm, garnishing with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as penne or fusilli, to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Fresh vs. Dried Sun Dried Tomatoes: If you have access to fresh sun dried tomatoes, they can add a burst of flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while cooking; they should be pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Adjust the Balsamic Vinegar: If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to add a touch more balsamic vinegar. It beautifully complements the shrimp and tomatoes.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! It’s a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency without diluting the flavor.
- Garnish for Greatness: Fresh basil not only adds color but also enhances the dish's aroma and flavor. Consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be easily doubled for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 230mg
