There’s something irresistible about the combination of shrimp and pasta. The tender, juicy shrimp paired with perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. Adding pico de gallo brings a fresh burst of flavor that brightens every bite with its zesty tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
We love experimenting with this fusion because it blends the richness of seafood with the vibrant, tangy notes of pico de gallo. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion—whether a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo dish, we use fresh and flavorful ingredients that bring out the best in every bite. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need for each component.
Shrimp Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Juice of 1 lime
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (preferably linguine or fettuccine)
- 4 cups water (for boiling)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Pico De Gallo Ingredients
- 3 medium tomatoes (finely diced)
- ½ medium white onion (finely chopped)
- 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt (to taste)
Optional Garnishes and Add-Ons
- Avocado slices (creamy texture contrast)
- Extra lime wedges
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for added spice)
- Toasted pine nuts (for crunch)
| Ingredient Category | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | Large shrimp, olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, lime |
| Pasta | Linguine, salt, butter, Parmesan, parsley |
| Pico De Gallo | Tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt |
| Optional Garnishes/Add-Ons | Avocado, lime wedges, red pepper flakes, pine nuts |
With these ingredients on hand, we’re ready to assemble the delicious shrimp and pasta recipe with pico de gallo that bursts with freshness and zest.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo recipe seamlessly, having the right equipment is essential. Here’s what we will need to ensure every step is efficient and the flavors come together perfectly.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | To boil the linguine pasta |
| Large skillet or sauté pan | For cooking shrimp with garlic and spices |
| Mixing bowl | To toss and mix the pico de gallo ingredients |
| Knife | For chopping tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro |
| Cutting board | To provide a clean surface for chopping |
| Colander or strainer | To drain the cooked pasta |
| Citrus juicer or reamer | To extract fresh lime juice |
| Measuring spoons | To measure seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice precisely |
| Wooden spoon or spatula | For stirring the shrimp and pasta |
| Grater | To shred Parmesan cheese |
We recommend using a non-stick skillet to cook shrimp evenly without sticking. A sharp knife will make dicing pico de gallo ingredients quicker and smoother, preserving freshness. Using a citrus juicer ensures we get the most juice from limes, vital for that bright zing in both the shrimp and pico de gallo.
Having these tools ready before we start saves time and keeps the cooking flow smooth from start to finish. Let’s get everything organized and ready to create a perfectly balanced and vibrant dish.
Prep Work
To create the perfect Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo, thorough Prep Work is essential. Preparing each component carefully ensures every bite bursts with fresh flavors and that cooking flows smoothly.
Preparing the Shrimp
We start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp. Using large shrimp will give us the best texture and flavor. Rinse them under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. Next, we toss the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes, lime juice, and salt to marinate. This step infuses the shrimp with bold, zesty notes that complement the pasta and pico de gallo perfectly.
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Large shrimp | 1 pound | Peeled and deveined |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For marinating |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | |
| Chili flakes | 1/4 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Lime juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt | To taste |
Making the Pico De Gallo
Our pico de gallo adds a fresh and zesty counterpoint. We finely dice ripe tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño—removing seeds from the jalapeño if we prefer milder heat. Next, we chop fragrant cilantro leaves and toss everything in a bowl with freshly squeezed lime juice and salt. Letting this rest briefly allows the flavors to meld, creating a vibrant topping that elevates the dish.
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 2 medium | Finely diced |
| Onion | 1 small | Finely diced |
| Jalapeño | 1 | Finely diced, seeds removed if desired |
| Cilantro | 1/4 cup | Chopped |
| Lime juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt | To taste |
Cooking the Pasta
We choose linguine to create the perfect bed for our shrimp and pico de gallo. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous 1 tablespoon of salt to season the water—this is crucial as it enhances the pasta’s flavor. Cook the linguine until al dente, usually 9-11 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta using a colander and toss it immediately with butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. This coating adds richness and aroma that tie the dish together beautifully.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Water amount | 4 quarts |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Pasta type | Linguine |
| Cooking time | 9-11 minutes (al dente) |
| Finishing touches | Butter (2 tablespoons), Parmesan (1/4 cup grated), parsley (2 tablespoons chopped) |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create our vibrant Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo dish that perfectly balances bold flavors and fresh zest.
Cooking the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and allow it to warm until shimmering.
- Place the marinated shrimp in the skillet in a single layer.
- Cook the shrimp 3 minutes per side or until they turn opaque and firm to the touch.
- Avoid overcooking to maintain the shrimp’s tender texture.
- Remove shrimp from heat and set aside, reserving any flavorful juices in the pan.
Combining Shrimp with Pasta
- Drain the cooked linguine using a colander, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Return the skillet with shrimp juices to medium heat.
- Add cooked linguine to the skillet.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons butter, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to desired consistency.
- Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly with the buttery shrimp flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | Sauté shrimp |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Enrich pasta and shrimp sauce |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup grated | Add savory richness to pasta |
| Parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | Fresh herb aroma and color |
| Pasta water | ½ cup | Adjust sauce consistency |
Adding Pico De Gallo to the Dish
- Gently fold the prepared pico de gallo into the shrimp-pasta mixture.
- Balance flavors by tasting and adjusting seasoning with salt or lime juice if needed.
- Remember the pico de gallo adds a refreshing contrast with its fresh tomatoes, vibrant jalapeño heat, and tangy lime that cut through the buttery pasta.
Final Assembly and Garnishing
- Plate the shrimp and pasta mixture generously.
- Top with extra fresh pico de gallo for a bright, eye-catching finish.
- Garnish with optional avocado slices, a lime wedge for an extra citrus burst, toasted pine nuts for crunch, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the harmonious blend of textures and flavors at their freshest.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Shrimp and Pasta recipes with Pico De Gallo, consider the following serving suggestions that amplify flavors and complement the dish’s vibrant profile.
- Plate Presentation
Serve the pasta generously twirled onto warm plates. Top with a generous scoop of the zesty pico de gallo, allowing the fresh tomatoes and cilantro to shine on each bite. Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a subtle crunch contrast.
- Garnishing Tips
Enhance the dish’s flavor and visual appeal with these garnishes:
- Thin avocado slices provide a creamy, cooling balance
- Fresh lime wedges offer an extra citrus zing to brighten the palate
- A dash of crushed red pepper flakes intensifies heat for spice lovers
| Garnish | Flavor Profile | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Avocado slices | Creamy, mild | Balances spice and freshness |
| Lime wedges | Tangy, citrusy | Adds brightness and acidity |
| Crushed red pepper | Spicy, bold | Enhances heat and complexity |
| Toasted pine nuts | Nutty, crisp | Adds texture and depth |
- Drink Pairings
Complement our shrimp pasta creation with beverages that refresh and contrast its complex layers:
- A chilled crisp Sauvignon Blanc highlights the citrus and herb notes
- Sparkling water with a splash of lime cleanses the palate
- For a non-alcoholic choice, iced green tea with lemon complements the fresh pico
To round out the meal, pair with light and complementary sides such as:
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic roasted asparagus or green beans
- Warm crusty bread to soak up flavorful juices
As we plate this shrimp and pasta with pico de gallo dish, these serving enhancements ensure every bite bursts with freshness, texture, and balance — transforming a simple meal into an experience worth savoring.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy the vibrant flavors of our Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo recipe with minimal last-minute effort, follow these smart Make-Ahead Tips:
Prep the Shrimp in Advance
- Clean and devein the shrimp thoroughly.
- Marinate the shrimp in olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes, lime juice, and salt.
- Store the marinated shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to intensify while saving prep time on cooking day.
Prepare Pico De Gallo Early
- Dice tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro as instructed.
- Mix these with lime juice and salt.
- Cover and refrigerate the pico de gallo for up to 12 hours.
- Quote to remember:
“Pico de gallo tastes best when chilled at least one hour before serving to let the flavors meld perfectly.”
Cook and Store Pasta Ahead
- Cook linguine al dente in salted water.
- Toss pasta with butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
- Cool pasta quickly by rinsing briefly with cold water to stop cooking or spread on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat Tips for Best Results
| Component | Storage Time | Reheating Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Shrimp | Up to 24 hours | Sauté in a hot skillet 2-3 minutes per side | Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep texture tender |
| Pico de Gallo | Up to 12 hours | Serve chilled or at room temperature | Do not reheat to preserve freshness |
| Cooked Pasta | Up to 2 days | Reheat gently in skillet with a splash of olive oil | Add reserved pasta water if pasta feels dry |
Assembly Tips to Save Time
- Combine reheated shrimp and pasta just before serving.
- Fold in pico de gallo gently to retain freshness and texture.
- Garnish with avocado slices, lime wedges, and toasted pine nuts right before plating.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we streamline our cooking process while preserving the fresh, zesty essence of our Shrimp and Pasta with Pico De Gallo. This allows us to serve a dish that tastes vibrant and balanced with minimal last-minute prep.
Conclusion
This shrimp and pasta dish with pico de gallo brings together bright flavors and satisfying textures in a way that’s both approachable and impressive. It’s a versatile recipe that fits effortlessly into busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
By preparing some elements ahead of time and using fresh, wholesome ingredients, we can enjoy a meal that feels fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a perfect example of how simple components can come together to create something truly memorable and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Shrimp and Pasta with Pico de Gallo?
You need large shrimp, olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes, lime juice, linguine, butter, Parmesan, parsley, tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, salt, and optional garnishes like avocado, lime wedges, crushed red pepper flakes, and toasted pine nuts.
How do you prepare the shrimp for this dish?
Clean and devein the shrimp, then marinate them in olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes, lime juice, and salt for bold flavor before cooking.
What is the best way to cook the linguine?
Boil linguine in salted water until al dente, then toss with butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley to add richness and aroma.
How is pico de gallo made for this recipe?
Finely dice tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño, mix with cilantro, lime juice, and salt, and let flavors meld before serving.
What equipment do I need to make this dish?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for cooking shrimp, a mixing bowl for pico de gallo, a knife, cutting board, colander, and measuring spoons.
Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Yes, prep the shrimp and pico de gallo ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Combine and reheat shrimp and pasta just before serving, folding in pico de gallo to keep it fresh.
What are some good serving suggestions?
Serve the pasta warm with extra pico de gallo and toasted pine nuts. Garnish with avocado slices, lime wedges, and crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor and texture.
What sides and drinks pair well with Shrimp and Pasta with Pico de Gallo?
Pair it with a green salad, garlic roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. For drinks, try chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lime.
How do I maintain the quality when storing leftovers?
Store shrimp, pico de gallo, and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat shrimp and pasta gently to prevent overcooking; add pico de gallo fresh before serving.
Is this dish suitable for quick weeknight dinners?
Yes, it’s easy to prepare with wholesome ingredients and versatile enough for quick weeknight meals or special occasions.