This quick and easy pasta dish is a delightful combination of shrimp, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it strikes the right balance between wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver for those busy days when you crave a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant colors of fresh vegetables, the savory richness of parmesan, and the tender shrimp come together to create a symphony of tastes and textures.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Pasta (as per package instructions)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Shrimp (quantity as preferred)
• Black pepper
• Fennel seeds
• Garlic powder
• Zucchini, diced
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Vegetable stock
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Additional olive oil for drizzling

Directions

1. Cook pasta al dente as per package instructions.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, black pepper, fennel seeds, and garlic powder. Cook for 3–4 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté diced zucchini until golden on the edges. Remove and set aside.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, cayenne pepper (if using), and vegetable stock to the skillet. Cover and cook until tomatoes are blistered, stirring occasionally.
5. Push tomatoes to the side of the pan. Add cooked shrimp, zucchini, pasta, and parmesan cheese. Stir well and reheat for a couple of minutes, adding more vegetable stock if necessary.
6. Serve immediately with a drizzle of olive oil and additional parmesan. Enjoy!

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350–400 kcal
• Protein: 22–25 g
• Fat: 12–15 g (primarily from olive oil and parmesan)
• Carbohydrates: 35–40 g
• Fiber: 3–5 g (from zucchini and cherry tomatoes)
• Sugar: 4–6 g (natural sugars from tomatoes and zucchini)
• Sodium: 500–700 mg (adjust based on added salt and stock)
• Cholesterol: 150–200 mg (from shrimp and parmesan)

A Dish That Meets Diverse Needs

What sets this dish apart is its adaptability. Whether you’re catering to a family dinner, entertaining friends, or preparing a romantic meal for two, this recipe fits all occasions. It’s suitable for seafood lovers and those seeking a balanced meal rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.

Additionally, this pasta dish can be easily customized. Not a fan of shrimp? Swap it with chicken or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. Looking to boost the flavor? Add some freshly chopped basil, a dash of chili flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Convenient: With a total prep and cook time of less than 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those hectic evenings.
2. Nutritionally Balanced: It delivers a healthy mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a well-rounded meal. The zucchini and cherry tomatoes also contribute fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
3. Flavorful: The combination of fennel seeds, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (optional) adds layers of flavor that perfectly complement the shrimp and vegetables.
4. Minimal Cleanup: This one-skillet dish reduces the hassle of post-dinner cleaning, making it even more appealing.

Ideal for Meal Prepping

This recipe isn’t just a quick weeknight dinner—it’s also a great choice for meal prepping. The individual components, such as cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and shrimp, can be prepared in advance and stored separately. When it’s time to eat, simply combine everything in a skillet, add some vegetable stock, and warm it through.

Stored in airtight containers, this dish stays fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator. It’s an excellent solution for busy professionals or students who want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without the daily effort.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

• Shrimp: Shrimp is a low-calorie source of high-quality protein and provides essential nutrients like iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.
• Zucchini: This low-calorie vegetable is high in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber. It aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy immune system.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Packed with lycopene, cherry tomatoes are known for their antioxidant properties. They’re also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
• Parmesan Cheese: While parmesan is rich in flavor, it also provides calcium, protein, and small amounts of vitamin A and B12. Its bold taste allows you to use less while still enhancing the dish.
• Olive Oil: The base of this recipe, olive oil is renowned for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidant properties.
• Cayenne Pepper: If you choose to include it, cayenne pepper can boost metabolism and add a spicy kick to the dish.

Tips for Perfect Execution

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta retains a slight bite, as this texture pairs beautifully with the creamy parmesan and juicy shrimp.
2. Do Not Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
3. Blister the Tomatoes: Allow the cherry tomatoes to blister and soften for an intensified sweetness that adds depth to the sauce.
4. Use Fresh Parmesan: Grating fresh parmesan ensures maximum flavor and a smoother texture.
5. Adjust the Spice: Add cayenne pepper gradually, especially if serving this dish to children or spice-sensitive guests.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to add freshness and crunch. For a more indulgent meal, serve with a side of garlic bread or a warm baguette. A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors wonderfully. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a chilled sparkling water with a splash of lime is equally refreshing.

Variations to Explore

1. Low-Carb Version: Replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with tofu, chickpeas, or roasted mushrooms.
3. Creamy Sauce: For a richer version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone before adding the parmesan.
4. Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for an aromatic twist.

Conclusion

This shrimp, zucchini, cherry tomato, and parmesan pasta dish is a true crowd-pleaser that marries convenience, nutrition, and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to master and delivers results that look and taste like they belong on a restaurant menu. Its vibrant appearance, coupled with the comforting combination of pasta and cheese, ensures it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Try it today and experience a wholesome, satisfying meal that celebrates the best of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques. Once you’ve tasted it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again—a testament to its irresistible charm and versatility. Enjoy every bite!