Name: Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp and Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces squid ink pasta; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 2 Tablespoons tomato paste; 10 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/3 cup white wine or dry vermouth; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 lemons, zested and juiced; 1/2 cup chopped basil; 4 Tablespoons butter; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 10 reviews

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If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the mysterious allure of squid ink pasta with the fresh brightness of shrimp and a vibrant cherry tomato basil sauce, you’re in for a real treat. This Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp and Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe brings the deep, briny notes of the ink pasta together with succulent shrimp and a lively sauce that bursts with the sweet acidity of cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. It’s a stunning dish that’s as impressive as it is approachable, perfect for turning any meal into a special occasion without hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several small white bowls and one small wooden bowl placed on a white marbled surface. In the top center, a white bowl holds several peeled pink shrimp with a smooth texture. Below to the left, a wooden bowl is filled with shiny red grape tomatoes and some green sprigs of thyme. To the right, a small white bowl contains large chunks of soft white cheese. Near the center, a clear glass with a transparent liquid sits next to another small transparent bowl filled with finely chopped white onions. At the bottom left, a round wooden board holds whole garlic cloves still in their papery skins. A small flower-shaped white dish near the center contains crushed red pepper flakes. The overall arrangement is clean and simple, and the colors are fresh and natural. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This dish shines because each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the rich complexity of the squid ink pasta to the fresh pop of cherry tomatoes and the herbal brightness of basil. You’ll find these ingredients are simple yet essential for creating layers of taste, texture, and beautiful color on your plate.

12 ounces squid ink pasta: Provides a dramatic, deep black base with a subtle briny flavor that makes this dish visually stunning and unique.

1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined): Adds tender, sweet seafood notes that perfectly complement the savory sauce.
1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: The foundation for sautéing garlic and building rich flavor.
6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes that mingle beautifully with the shrimp and tomatoes.

2 Tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor with a deep, concentrated sweetness and color.
10 ounces cherry tomatoes (halved): Bursting with juicy sweetness and acidity to brighten the sauce.
1/3 cup white wine or dry vermouth: Adds a touch of acidity and complexity to elevate the sauce.

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Delivers just the right amount of gentle heat without overpowering the other flavors.
2 lemons (zested and juiced): Brings fresh citrus brightness that lifts all the rich ingredients.
1/2 cup chopped basil: Offers fragrant herbal notes and fresh green color that completes the dish.

4 Tablespoons butter: Provides a silky richness that rounds out the sauce and ties the flavors together.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the components.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and depth at the end.

How to Make Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp and Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Base

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook it gently, stirring frequently for about 1 to 2 minutes until it turns lightly golden and releases that incredible garlic aroma. Then stir in the tomato paste, cooking it for another 30 seconds to a minute to deepen its color and flavor, creating a rich base for the sauce that will coat your pasta perfectly.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Basil Sauce

Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, white wine (or dry vermouth), about a quarter cup of water, and red pepper flakes. Season everything with a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let this simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to release their vibrant juices, melding with the wine and garlic into a bright, flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Squid Ink Pasta

While your sauce is developing those lovely flavors, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the squid ink pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Be sure to reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining—it’s a secret weapon to create the perfect sauce consistency later on.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Once your tomatoes are tender, nestle the shrimp into the skillet and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through—tender and juicy, adding wonderful texture and a fresh seafood punch.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

With everything ready, add the cooked squid ink pasta, butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and half of the reserved pasta water to your skillet. Toss and stir frequently for 2 to 3 minutes to let the pasta soak up the sauce, becoming glossy and perfectly coated. If the sauce looks a little dry, add more of the reserved pasta water until the texture feels just right. Finish by stirring in half the chopped basil, allowing its fragrance to infuse the whole dish.

Step 6: Final Touch and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the remaining basil on top as a fresh, herbal garnish. This not only adds a punch of color but also a lively herbal aroma that will have your guests eagerly anticipating the first bite.

How to Serve Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp and Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe

Three white plates with raised edges each hold a nest of black squid ink spaghetti twisted into a loose mound. Scattered on top are orange shrimp, browned garlic slices, and bright red cherry tomatoes. Thin strips of fresh green basil are sprinkled on the pasta. Two silver forks rest inside two plates, one placed on a grey cloth. The plates sit on a white marbled surface with scattered green basil leaves around. The lighting is natural and bright, making the colors pop vividly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For that extra wow factor, consider topping your pasta with a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a few shavings of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A small handful of toasted pine nuts can add a delightful crunch, while a sprinkle of zest from an additional lemon will amplify the citrus brightness, complementing the shrimp beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, vibrant side salads featuring peppery arugula or fresh baby spinach dressed in a lemon vinaigrette. Garlic-rubbed crusty bread or a warm baguette is perfect for sopping up every last bit of that luscious cherry tomato basil sauce. A chilled glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon perfectly rounds out the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, twirl the squid ink pasta into neat nests on each plate and mount the shrimp on top, accentuating the striking black pasta with the vibrant red tomatoes and green basil. Serve it in shallow white bowls to let the colors pop. Adding edible flowers or microgreens as a final flourish can elevate the presentation, making your Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp and Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe truly unforgettable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will continue to deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day, though the pasta may absorb more sauce and become a bit softer.

Freezing

Because this recipe features delicate seafood and fresh tomatoes, freezing is not recommended. Freezing can alter the texture of the shrimp and cause the tomato sauce to separate upon thawing, which might affect the overall dish quality.

Reheating

When reheating your leftover Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp and Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and stir frequently until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the shrimp tender and the sauce luscious.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of squid ink pasta?

Absolutely! While squid ink pasta adds a unique briny flavor and dramatic color, you can substitute with linguine, spaghetti, or any other pasta you prefer. The sauce will taste just as delicious, though the visual impact will differ.

Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce?

White wine adds acidity and complexity to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, dry vermouth or even a splash of chicken or vegetable broth with a squeeze of lemon can work well as alternatives.

How spicy is this dish because of the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes provide a gentle warmth that enhances the sauce’s depth without making it spicy-hot. You can adjust the amount to your taste or omit it completely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

You can chop the garlic, halve the cherry tomatoes, and zest the lemons in advance to save time. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp and toss everything together right before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.

What wine pairs best with this Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp and Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe?

A crisp dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or even a lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the seafood and tomato sauce beautifully, balancing acidity and richness for a harmonious pairing.

Final Thoughts

This Squid Ink Pasta with Shrimp and Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe is a spectacular way to impress both yourself and your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The combination of bold flavors, beautiful colors, and fresh ingredients makes every bite feel like a mini celebration. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for easy yet elegant dinners. Don’t wait to dive into this delicious experience!

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