Description

Bright, fresh, and packed with natural flavor, this Fresh Tomato Zucchini Shrimp Pasta is a light and delicious dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Juicy shrimp, sautéed zucchini, and sweet cherry tomatoes come together in a garlic-infused olive oil sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Finished with lemon and fresh herbs, every bite is summery, satisfying, and full of wholesome ingredients.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

8 oz spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
Salt for the pasta water

For the Shrimp & Vegetables:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium zucchini, halved and thinly sliced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh chopped basil
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
While pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper.
Sauté for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through.
Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add cherry tomatoes and zucchini. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes begin to burst and zucchini is tender.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables.
Add cooked pasta, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time to create a light sauce.
Stir in chopped basil and grated parmesan (if using).

Step 5: Serve
Plate the pasta hot, garnished with extra herbs or parmesan if desired.
Serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread on the side for the perfect finish.

Notes

Don’t Overcook Shrimp – They cook fast, so keep an eye on them.
Use Fresh Lemon – Bottled juice won’t give the same bright, vibrant flavor.
Balance with Basil – The herb adds a fresh, aromatic finish.
Customize It – Add spinach, asparagus, or even white beans for variation.
Use Good Pasta – Bronze-cut pasta holds sauce better for a perfect texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired