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Close up of Mediterranean Shrimp Spaghetti with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and fresh herbs in a bowl.

Shrimp Spaghetti with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and Herbs

A vibrant, restaurant-quality meal ready in just 30 minutes. This Shrimp Spaghetti with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and Herbs Recipe captures the heart of Mediterranean cooking by using high-quality olive oil, pungent garlic, and the natural sweetness of blistered tomatoes to create a light yet luxurious sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 540
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz Spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 lb Large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 pint Red and yellow cherry tomatoes
  • 4-5 cloves Garlic thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Chicken or vegetable broth
  • 6 tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp Lemon zest
  • 1 whole Lemon juiced
  • 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil chopped
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley chopped
Optional:
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Method
 

  1. Boil Pasta: Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Sear Shrimp: Heat 2 tbsp oil and 2 tbsp butter in a skillet. Cook seasoned shrimp for 1-2 mins per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
  3. Burst Tomatoes: Add remaining oil and butter to the skillet. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 min. Add tomatoes, cover, and cook for 5-10 mins until they burst.
  4. Deglaze: Stir in broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 mins.
  5. Toss: Add pasta, shrimp, and 1/2 cup pasta water back to the pan. Toss over medium heat until glossy.
  6. Garnish: Stir in herbs and lemon zest. Serve with Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • The Shrimp Secret: Always remove the shrimp from the pan once they are opaque. Adding them back at the very end ensures they stay tender rather than becoming rubbery.
  • Liquid Gold: Don't skip the pasta water! The starch is essential for emulsifying the oil and broth into a silky sauce that clings to the spaghetti.