Zesty Shrimp and Tomato Fettuccine

Name: Zesty Shrimp and Tomato Fettuccine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g fettuccine pasta; 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love how this Zesty Shrimp and Tomato Fettuccine brings a burst of flavor to the table! The combination of succulent shrimp and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. As I prepared this meal, I could already taste the zing from the lemon and herbs harmonizing with the pasta. It's quick to whip up, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a standout dish for guests. The freshness of the ingredients truly makes this recipe shine, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-15T14:34:19.148Z

When I first created this Zesty Shrimp and Tomato Fettuccine, I was inspired by the vibrant colors and flavors of summer. Cooking the shrimp separately and adding them at the end allows them to maintain a tender texture, while the tomatoes burst with flavor from the heat of the stove. The acidity from the lemon juice brightens the dish, making every bite refreshing and delicious.

One key tip I discovered is to reserve a bit of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the sauce's consistency, ensuring it clings beautifully to the fettuccine. This method makes the dish not only more flavorful but also gives it a professional touch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp paired with fresh herbs and tangy tomatoes
A quick and easy weeknight meal that's full of flavor
Perfectly creamy texture that envelops the fettuccine

Perfecting the Fettuccine

Cooking the fettuccine to al dente is crucial for achieving the right texture in this dish. Overcooking can lead to a mushy pasta that doesn't hold onto the sauce well. Aim for about 8-10 minutes in boiling salted water, but start checking for doneness a minute or two early. Al dente pasta should be slightly firm to the bite, and it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce.

Remember to reserve that cup of pasta water! It’s a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce consistency later. If the sauce feels dry or too thick after combining it with the fettuccine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water can revive the dish and help everything stick together nicely.

Sautéing Shrimp to Perfection

When sautéing the shrimp, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp to avoid a soggy texture. They should be placed in a single layer and cooked for about 3-4 minutes. Look for a bright pink color and opaque center. If your skillet is overcrowded, the shrimp will steam instead of sear, leading to less flavor and a rubbery texture.

For optimal flavor, you can also marinate your shrimp briefly in olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt before sautéing. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a hint of tanginess that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Customization and Storage

Feel free to customize this dish by adding ingredients like bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini for a boost of vegetables. Just add them to the skillet along with the cherry tomatoes to ensure they cook through. If you're looking for a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce during the sautéing step.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fettuccine may absorb some of the sauce, so when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or additional reserved pasta water to loosen it up, and give it a quick heat on the stovetop to revive the dish.

Ingredients

Shrimp and Sauce

400g fettuccine pasta
500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Lemon

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Squeeze in the lemon juice, stirring to combine.

Combine with Pasta

Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Feel free to customize with vegetables or adjust the spice level!

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Zesty Shrimp and Tomato Fettuccine for a dinner party, serve it with a side of garlic bread and a light salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the salad will balance the richness of the pasta, making for a well-rounded meal.

Don’t forget to finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving. It adds a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of the shrimp and tomato.

Variations for Everyone

This recipe is versatile enough to accommodate dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, swap out the fettuccine for gluten-free pasta varieties that suit your taste. Similarly, for a lighter version, consider using zoodles (zucchini noodles) as a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.

If you're looking for vegetarian options, substitute the shrimp with marinated tofu or chickpeas, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Simply sauté the tofu until golden and crispy before adding it to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for fettuccine?

You can substitute with any pasta type, such as linguine or spaghetti, based on your preference.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for extra heat.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can cook the shrimp and sauce ahead and combine them with pasta just before serving.