Shrimp and Pasta Recipes With Pico De Gallo Recipe Ideas

If you’re searching for a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the succulence of shrimp with the comfort of pasta, then you’re in for a treat! Shrimp and pasta recipes with pico de gallo bring together the best of both worlds: the rich, buttery taste of perfectly cooked shrimp alongside fresh, zesty pico de gallo that adds a burst of brightness and texture.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and balanced flavors.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through making an easy shrimp and pasta dish topped with a homemade pico de gallo that elevates the meal with fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime. You’ll also find tips on ingredient substitutions, variations, and serving ideas to make this recipe your own.

Let’s dive into this delicious journey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simplicity meets bold flavor in this shrimp and pasta recipe. The shrimp are seared to juicy perfection, while the pico de gallo brings a refreshing, tangy contrast that makes every bite exciting.

This dish is perfect for those who want a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The recipe is versatile—you can adjust the heat and ingredients in the pico de gallo to suit your taste, and it works well with any pasta you have on hand. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fresh veggies, and wholesome carbs, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Lastly, this meal is quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lime (juice and zest)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (about ¼ cup)
• For the pico de gallo:
• 3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 small white onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt, to taste

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl for pico de gallo
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander or strainer
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Tongs or pasta fork

Instructions

1. Prepare the pico de gallo: In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well, then cover and refrigerate while you cook the pasta and shrimp to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
3. Season and cook the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss shrimp with minced garlic, chili powder, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil until evenly coated.
4. Sauté the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer (cook in batches if needed to avoid crowding). Sear shrimp for 2 minutes on one side until pink and opaque, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Toss pasta and shrimp: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Add shrimp back to the pan and mix gently. Squeeze in lime juice and sprinkle lime zest and chopped cilantro over the top. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
6. Serve: Plate the shrimp and pasta mixture and spoon generous amounts of pico de gallo over the top. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.

Tips & Variations

Always pat your shrimp dry before cooking! This helps them sear properly instead of steaming and keeps the texture firm and delicious.

For a creamier pasta, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk after tossing in the shrimp. You can also substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

If you like your pico de gallo with a smoky flavor, try roasting the tomatoes and jalapeño under the broiler for a few minutes before dicing. Experiment with adding diced avocado or corn kernels to the pico for extra texture and richness.

To make this recipe gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles (zoodles) work beautifully with this dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This shrimp and pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. For a light side, try a simple cucumber and avocado salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

To round out the meal, serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices and pico de gallo. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the fresh flavors beautifully.

For more wholesome meal ideas, check out our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas or explore flavor-packed vegetarian options like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.

Conclusion

This shrimp and pasta recipe with pico de gallo brings a delightful mix of textures and flavors to your dining table. It’s a perfect balance of savory shrimp and fresh, zesty salsa that makes every bite memorable.

The simplicity of the ingredients and the quick preparation time make it an accessible option for cooks of all levels.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something fresh and vibrant, this dish is sure to satisfy. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe with your favorite herbs or spice level, and enjoy the process as much as the meal itself.

For more delicious recipes that bring fresh flavors to your table, take a look at our Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious or discover comforting soups like the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

Happy cooking!

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