If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and comes together in a flash, this Shrimp with Tomato and Basil Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection, mingling with juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, all kissed by garlic and a hint of lemon. It’s a dish that brings summer to your plate any time of the year, combining simplicity and elegance with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests at your next dinner, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple you’ll turn to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Shrimp with Tomato and Basil Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role, whether it’s bringing brightness, texture, or that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, tender and quick to cook.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: These add a juicy sweetness and lovely pops of color.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic introduces a deep, savory warmth that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Fresh basil infuses the dish with its signature herbaceous fragrance.
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil: A silky base that brings everything together and helps cook the shrimp gently.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors, balancing the dish beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick if you like things a bit spicier.
- Juice of 1 lemon: A bright, zesty finish that wakes up the palate.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional): Provides a nutty, savory topping that takes it over the edge.
How to Make Shrimp with Tomato and Basil Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Shrimp and Ingredients
Start by ensuring your shrimp is peeled and deveined, which makes them quick to cook and easy to eat. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels — this helps them sear nicely instead of steaming. Meanwhile, halve your cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, and chop the fresh basil leaves. Having everything prepped sets you up for a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and gently sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds — you want it soft, not browned. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, cooking them down until they’re just starting to soften and release their juices. This step creates a luscious, slightly sweet base that will coat the shrimp beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Push the tomatoes gently to one side and add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque— keep a close eye as shrimp cook fast and you want them tender, not rubbery. Once cooked, mix the shrimp with the tomatoes to combine the flavors.
Step 4: Finish With Basil and Lemon
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil and the juice of one lemon. This final step brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and a citrusy tang that balances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and shrimp. Give everything a gentle toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
How to Serve Shrimp with Tomato and Basil Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Shrimp with Tomato and Basil Recipe, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top while it’s still warm. A few extra basil leaves can also add a pop of color and intense herbal aroma that enhances every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices or a bed of fluffy rice or pasta for a more filling meal. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables add a fresh contrast and round out the plate nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special dinner, serve this dish in individual small bowls or over toasted baguette slices as an elegant appetizer. You can also toss the shrimp and tomato mixture through cooked spaghetti for an irresistible pasta dish that’s as joyous as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp and tomato mixture will stay fresh for up to 2 days and can be gently reheated without losing its flavor or texture.
Freezing
While shrimp dishes aren’t always perfect candidates for freezing, you can freeze this recipe if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and try to consume within one month for best taste. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the shrimp’s tenderness.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave at short intervals to avoid overcooking the shrimp. A light drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water can help maintain moisture during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly for this Shrimp with Tomato and Basil Recipe. Just thaw them completely, pat dry to remove excess moisture, and then follow the recipe as usual.
What can I substitute for fresh basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, Italian parsley or fresh oregano provide a fresh herb flavor, though basil has a unique sweetness. Dried basil isn’t recommended here as it won’t provide the same vibrant aroma.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is very mild unless you add the optional red pepper flakes, which give a subtle, pleasant heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To keep the essence while going vegetarian, swap shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu. The tomato and basil flavors remain lovely with these substitutes.
What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp quickly?
Use your fingers or a small knife to remove the shell, then make a shallow slit along the back of the shrimp and pull out the vein with the tip of the knife or a toothpick. Rinse under cold water and pat dry before cooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Shrimp with Tomato and Basil Recipe — it’s fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s a wonderful way to brighten up your dinner routine with ingredients you’ll love. So grab those shrimp and basil, and treat yourself to this delicious, heartwarming dish that’s bound to become an all-time favorite!
Print
Shrimp with Tomato and Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Shrimp with Tomato and Basil recipe is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Juicy shrimp sautéed with fresh cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and aromatic basil come together with a splash of lemon juice and a hint of spice. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil and optional Parmesan cheese, this dish offers a delightful balance of freshness and savory richness, ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Produce
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Pantry
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better sautéing.
- Sauté garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, then cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add tomatoes and basil: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh basil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
- Finish with lemon juice: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the mixture and toss to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture; frozen shrimp should be thawed and drained well before cooking.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes or diced plum tomatoes.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level of the dish.
- For a gluten-free meal, ensure Parmesan cheese is gluten-free if using.
- This dish pairs well with pasta, crusty bread, or over a bed of rice or greens.
