Sautéed Shrimp and Cherry Tomatoes Pasta with Lemon Zest

A bright, simple pasta dish featuring plump shrimp and juicy cherry tomatoes tossed with lemon-infused pasta and fresh herbs.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Pasta

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 20 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves, minced garlic
• 1 lb, peeled and deveined shrimp
• 1 cup, halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add 1 lb shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
3. Step 3: Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in 1/4 cup lemon juice and 1 tbsp lemon zest, then remove from heat.
4. Step 4: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with 1/4 cup reserved pasta water, and toss vigorously for 1 minute until the sauce coats the pasta. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
5. Step 5: Divide among plates and sprinkle with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.