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Grilled Shrimp And Vegetable Pasta

By Claire Whitaker | April 13, 2026
Grilled Shrimp And Vegetable Pasta
Seafood Pasta

Grilled Shrimp And Vegetable Pasta

Prep15 min
Cook12 min
Total27 min
Serves4
Grilled Shrimp And Vegetable Pasta
Grilled Shrimp Pasta

I still remember the first time I made grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta for my family. It was a warm summer evening, and we were all gathered around the dinner table, eager to taste the latest creation from our home kitchen. The combination of succulent grilled shrimp, flavorful vegetables, and al dente pasta was an instant hit, and it has since become a staple in our household.

As a coastal home cook and former fishmonger's daughter, I've always been passionate about demystifying seafood for nervous cooks. I believe that fish and seafood should be treated as the easiest weeknight protein, rather than a special-occasion gamble. With this recipe, I hope to inspire you to try something new and delicious, even if you're short on time or not feeling overly confident in the kitchen.

Grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta is an easy and foolproof recipe that can be made from scratch in under 30 minutes. It's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, and it's also a great option for a casual gathering with friends or family. The best part is that it's highly customizable, so you can use your favorite vegetables and seasonings to make it your own.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to add natural sweetness and flavor to the dish. We'll also be using a simple yet flavorful marinade to give the shrimp a boost of flavor and moisture. And of course, no pasta dish would be complete without a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil.

So if you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner idea that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters, look no further than grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta. It's a recipe that's sure to become a staple in your household, and one that you'll return to again and again for its simplicity, flavor, and sheer enjoyment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
  • It's highly customizable, so you can use your favorite vegetables and seasonings to make it your own.
  • The combination of grilled shrimp, flavorful vegetables, and al dente pasta is a match made in heaven.
  • It's a great option for a casual gathering with friends or family.
  • The simple yet flavorful marinade helps to keep the shrimp moist and tender.
  • The use of high-quality ingredients ensures that the dish is not only delicious, but also good for us and the environment.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta is to cook the shrimp and vegetables separately, so that they're both cooked to perfection. By grilling the shrimp, we're able to add a nice char and texture to the dish, while also locking in the moisture and flavor. And by sautéing the vegetables in a bit of olive oil, we're able to bring out their natural sweetness and add a bit of depth to the dish.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a simple yet flavorful marinade. By marinating the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, we're able to add a bit of brightness and flavor to the dish, while also helping to keep the shrimp moist and tender. And of course, no pasta dish would be complete without a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese, which adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.

Finally, the use of high-quality ingredients is essential to making great grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta. By using fresh, sustainable seafood and vegetables, we're able to ensure that the dish is not only delicious, but also good for us and the environment. And by using good-quality olive oil and parmesan cheese, we're able to add a bit of depth and richness to the dish, without overpowering the other ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making great grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of fresh, sustainable seafood and vegetables, along with some high-quality pantry staples. Be sure to choose the freshest ingredients you can find, and don't be afraid to get creative with the vegetables and seasonings.

Some key ingredients to look for include fresh shrimp, colorful bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and good-quality olive oil. You'll also need some pantry staples like garlic, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese. And of course, no pasta dish would be complete without a generous sprinkling of salt and pepper to taste.

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveinedFresh, sustainable shrimp is essential to making great grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a sweet, slightly salty flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oilGood-quality olive oil is essential to adding depth and richness to the dish. Look for a high-quality olive oil with a mild, fruity flavor.
  • 1 large onion, slicedA large onion adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the dish. Look for an onion that is firm to the touch and has a mild, sweet flavor.
  • 2 large bell peppers, slicedColorful bell peppers add a bit of natural sweetness and flavor to the dish. Look for bell peppers that are firm to the touch and have a bright, vibrant color.
  • 2 medium zucchinis, slicedZucchinis add a bit of moisture and flavor to the dish. Look for zucchinis that are firm to the touch and have a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halvedCherry tomatoes add a bit of natural sweetness and flavor to the dish. Look for cherry tomatoes that are firm to the touch and have a bright, vibrant color.
  • 2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a bit of depth and flavor to the dish. Look for garlic that is firm to the touch and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juiceLemon juice adds a bit of brightness and flavor to the dish. Look for a high-quality lemon juice with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thymeThyme adds a bit of depth and flavor to the dish. Look for a high-quality thyme with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon saltSalt enhances the flavor of the dish and helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Look for a high-quality salt with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper adds a bit of depth and flavor to the dish. Look for a high-quality black pepper with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish. Look for a high-quality parmesan cheese with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choicePasta is the base of the dish, and you can use any type of pasta you like. Look for a high-quality pasta with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp And Vegetable Pasta

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or sauté panGrill or grill panSharp chef's knifeCutting boardColanderInstant-read thermometerWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Grilled Shrimp And Vegetable Pasta

  1. 1
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
  2. 2
    In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
  3. 3
    Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10-15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  4. 4
    Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
  5. 5
    Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the shrimp.
  6. 6
    While the shrimp are cooking, heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it's translucent and starting to caramelize.
  7. 7
    Add the sliced bell peppers and zucchinis to the skillet and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until they're tender and lightly browned.
  8. 8
    Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until they're heated through and starting to release their juices.
  9. 9
    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the vegetables and sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
  10. 10
    Once the shrimp are cooked, add them to the skillet and toss to combine with the pasta and sauce.
  11. 11
    Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Expert Tips

  • Make sure to pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel before grilling to help them cook more evenly and prevent them from steaming instead of searing.
  • Don't overcrowd the grill or skillet, as this can cause the shrimp and vegetables to steam instead of sear. Cook them in batches if necessary.
  • Use a variety of colorful bell peppers to add visual appeal to the dish.
  • Don't overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy and unappetizing. Cook it until it's al dente, then reserve some of the pasta water to add to the sauce.
  • Add some red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
  • Use high-quality ingredients, including fresh seafood and good-quality olive oil, to ensure the best flavor and texture.
  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
  • Experiment with different types of pasta and vegetables to find your favorite combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the shrimp, which can make them tough and rubbery.
  • Not patting the shrimp dry before grilling, which can cause them to steam instead of sear.
  • Overcrowding the grill or skillet, which can cause the shrimp and vegetables to steam instead of sear.
  • Not reserving enough pasta water, which can make the sauce too thick and sticky.
  • Not seasoning the dish with enough salt and pepper, which can make it taste bland and unappetizing.
  • Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add some diced chicken or sausage to the dish for extra protein.
  • Use different types of vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, to add variety to the dish.
  • Add some heat to the sauce with red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
  • Add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the sauce for extra flavor.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish more accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
  • Add some lemon zest to the sauce for a burst of citrus flavor.

What to Serve With Grilled Shrimp And Vegetable Pasta

Grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Some other options to consider include a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. You could also serve the dish with a side of grilled or sautéed spinach, which pairs well with the flavors of the shrimp and vegetables.

Serve with a side of garlic breadServe with a simple green saladServe with a side of roasted vegetablesServe with a side of grilled or sautéed spinachServe with a side of lemon wedges

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat, simply microwave the dish for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, adding a bit of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.

When reheating, make sure to stir the dish frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You can also add a bit of reserved pasta water to the sauce to thin it out and prevent it from becoming too thick.

It's also a good idea to label and date the container, so you can easily keep track of how long it's been stored. And of course, always check the dish for any signs of spoilage before reheating and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta you like, but a long, thin shape such as spaghetti or linguine works best. This type of pasta allows the sauce to coat the noodles evenly and helps to prevent the dish from becoming too thick and sticky.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with a paper towel before grilling. Frozen shrimp can be just as delicious as fresh, but they may require a bit more cooking time to ensure they're heated through.

How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill?

To prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill, make sure to brush the grill with a bit of oil before cooking. You can also use a non-stick grill mat or a piece of aluminum foil to prevent sticking.

Can I add other ingredients to the dish?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the dish to make it your own. Some options include diced chicken or sausage, different types of vegetables, or a sprinkle of grated cheese. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and seasonings accordingly.

How do I store the dish?

To store the dish, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze. Make sure to label and date the container, and always check the dish for any signs of spoilage before reheating and serving.

Can I make the dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time, but it's best to cook the pasta and grill the shrimp just before serving. This helps to ensure the dish is fresh and flavorful, and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy or overcooked.

What type of cheese is best for the dish?

You can use any type of cheese you like, but a mild, nutty cheese such as parmesan or mozzarella works best. These types of cheese add a rich, creamy flavor to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta, but make sure to adjust the cooking time and seasonings accordingly. Gluten-free pasta can be more delicate than traditional pasta, so be sure to handle it gently and cook it until it's al dente.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Grilled Shrimp And Vegetable Pasta

Grilled Shrimp And Vegetable Pasta

Quick, easy, and delicious grilled shrimp and vegetable pasta, perfect for a weeknight dinner, made with fresh seafood and vegetables in a real home kitchen

Prep15 min
Cook12 min
Total27 min
Serves4
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 large bell peppers, sliced
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
  3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10-15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  4. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
  5. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the shrimp.
  6. While the shrimp are cooking, heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it's translucent and starting to caramelize.
  7. Add the sliced bell peppers and zucchinis to the skillet and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until they're tender and lightly browned.
  8. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until they're heated through and starting to release their juices.
  9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the vegetables and sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
  10. Once the shrimp are cooked, add them to the skillet and toss to combine with the pasta and sauce.
  11. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

420Calories
30gProtein
25gCarbs
20gFat