June 17, 2026 · 5 min

Tuscan-Spiced Shrimp with Pesto Couscous and Blistered Tomatoes

Side Dish5 min2652 cal / serving

This Tuscan-spiced shrimp recipe brings together succulent shrimp, a savory pesto couscous and vibrant blistered tomatoes and zucchini for a light yet satisfying meal. The shrimp are coated in a fragrant blend of Tuscan herbs, then quickly seared until perfectly cooked. The couscous is tossed with pesto and sliced almonds for a nutty, herby base, while the vegetables are sautéed until tender and the tomatoes burst with sweetness.

Finished with an extra drizzle of pesto, this dish is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors that comes together in just 25 minutes. It’s an ideal choice for a busy weeknight when you want something wholesome and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.


Recipe details

Side Dish5 min2652 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories2652 kcalProtein32 gFat269.3 gCarbs35.3 gSugar7.8 gFiber4.3 gSodium4981 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: containsShellfish: containsPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: containsSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Israeli Couscous0.5 cup Israeli CouscousView ingredient guide
Zucchini1 unit ZucchiniView ingredient guide
Shrimp10 ounce ShrimpView ingredient guide
Grape Tomatoes4 ounce Grape TomatoesView ingredient guide
Pesto4 tablespoon PestoView ingredient guide
Sliced Almonds0.5 ounce Sliced AlmondsView ingredient guide
Cooking Oil4 teaspoon (tsp) Cooking OilView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide
Olive Oil1 teaspoon (tsp) Olive OilView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Israeli couscous and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the couscous cooks, trim the ends of the zucchini and cut it into half-moons. Halve the grape tomatoes. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper and the Tuscan Heat Spice.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and tender, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 teaspoons of cooking oil and the grape tomatoes. Cook without stirring for 2 minutes, then stir and cook until the tomatoes are blistered and starting to soften, about 2-3 minutes more. Transfer to the plate with the zucchini.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium and add the olive oil to the skillet. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
  6. In a bowl, combine the cooked couscous with 2 tablespoons of pesto and the sliced almonds. Stir to coat.
  7. To serve, divide the pesto couscous between plates. Top with the blistered tomatoes and zucchini, then arrange the shrimp alongside. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of pesto over the shrimp.

Recipe Tips

For extra flavor, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes before adding to the couscous.

If you prefer a bit more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the Tuscan Heat Spice.

Patting the shrimp dry helps them sear better and prevents steaming.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of couscous?

Yes, you can substitute regular couscous or pearl couscous. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Thaw the shrimp completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

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