Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lb large shrimp
• 3/4 cup fruity olive oil
• Salt and fresh black pepper
• 3 Tbs balsamic vinegar
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks
• 20 leaves fresh basil, roughly chopped
• 1 lb penne pasta

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Set a large pot of salted water to boil for the pasta. Meanwhile, start a charcoal fire or light a gas grill.
2. Brush the shrimp with about 1/4 cup of olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and fresh black pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining olive oil (1/2 cup), 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, minced shallot, and Dijon mustard. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Taste the vinaigrette and add more vinegar if needed.
4. Set the chopped tomatoes in a large bowl and marinate them with the prepared vinaigrette and roughly chopped basil.
5. Grill the seasoned shrimp over high heat on the charcoal fire or gas grill. Cook them until they turn pink, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. While grilling the shrimp, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain the cooked pasta.
7. Toss the drained pasta with the marinated tomatoes, making sure the pasta is coated with the vinaigrette.
8. Top the pasta with the grilled shrimp.
9. Serve the delicious Shrimp and Tomato Penne Salad, and enjoy!

OPTIONAL VARIATION: Crawfish can be used instead of shrimp in this dish for an equally tasty variation.

This delightful Shrimp and Tomato Penne Salad is perfect for a summery and flavorful meal. Enjoy the combination of fresh ingredients and the tangy vinaigrette dressing!

Here are some delightful variations to try:

1. Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta: Add sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and diced cucumber to the marinated tomatoes and basil. Toss with the penne and grilled shrimp for a Greek-inspired pasta salad.
2. Pesto Shrimp Pasta: Instead of the balsamic vinaigrette, toss the penne and grilled shrimp with homemade or store-bought basil pesto sauce. Add halved cherry tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Creamy Shrimp Primavera: Create a creamy sauce using heavy cream, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli to the penne and shrimp. Toss with the creamy sauce for a comforting and flavorful pasta.
4. Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Season the shrimp with Cajun spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme. Sauté with sliced bell peppers and onions. Toss with the penne and top with chopped scallions.
5. Asian Sesame Shrimp Pasta: Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Sauté with sliced bell peppers and snow peas. Toss with the penne and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
6. Roasted Veggie and Shrimp Pasta: Roast a mix of vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Toss with the penne and grilled shrimp for a colorful and flavorful pasta.
7. Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Sauté the shrimp with garlic and lemon zest. Add baby spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the pasta. Toss with the grilled shrimp and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
8. Shrimp Caprese Pasta: Add mozzarella pearls and halved cherry tomatoes to the marinated tomatoes and basil. Toss with the penne and grilled shrimp. Finish with a balsamic glaze drizzle.
9. Shrimp Alfredo: Create a creamy Alfredo sauce with butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss the penne and shrimp with the Alfredo sauce and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
10. Spicy Shrimp and Tomato Pasta: Sauté the shrimp with red pepper flakes and garlic for a spicy kick. Add diced tomatoes and baby spinach to the pasta. Toss with the grilled shrimp and drizzle with olive oil.