Tomato Zucchini Shrimp Pasta
Tomato Zucchini Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant healthy and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. Combining the freshness of zucchini the richness of tomato sauce and the tender juicy shrimp this pasta dish delivers a satisfying yet light meal packed with nutrients and taste.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
8 oz rotini or your favorite pasta
1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
2 medium zucchinis sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes or 1 ½ cup canned crushed tomatoes
3 cloves garlic minced
1 small onion finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ cup fresh parsley or basil chopped
Parmesan cheese for garnish optional
Instructions
Cook Pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Shrimp
In a large skillet heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat
Add shrimp season with salt pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside
Cook Vegetables
In the same skillet add the remaining olive oil
Sauté onion for 2 minutes then add garlic and cook another minute
Add zucchini and cook until tender about 4-5 minutes
Stir in cherry tomatoes or crushed tomatoes season with Italian herbs salt and pepper
Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens
Combine
Return shrimp to the skillet
Add cooked pasta and toss everything to combine
Sprinkle with chopped herbs and Parmesan if desired
Time Breakdown
Prep time 10 minutes
Cook time 20 minutes
Total time 30 minutes
Tips
Use precooked shrimp to cut down cook time even more
Add spinach or bell peppers for extra veggies
Substitute zucchini with yellow squash if preferred
For a low carb version use zucchini noodles instead of pasta
Q&A
Q Can I use frozen shrimp
A Yes just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking
Q Is this dish spicy
A Only if you include red pepper flakes You can leave them out for a milder version
Q Can this be made dairy free
A Absolutely Just skip the Parmesan cheese at the end
Q Can I make this ahead
A Yes it keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days Reheat gently on the stove or microwave
Nutrition Per Serving – Approximate
Calories 400
Protein 30g
Carbs 35g
Fat 15g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 6g
Conclusion
Tomato Zucchini Shrimp Pasta is a perfect balance of comfort and health. With fresh ingredients and quick prep time it’s a dish you’ll want to put on repeat. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a hearty flavorful meal any night of the week.