Irresistible Shrimp Pesto Pasta: A Flavorful Delight

The aroma of garlic mingling with freshly cooked shrimp wafts through the air, promising a culinary adventure. This shrimp pesto pasta is not just a dish; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart.

Picture this: a cozy evening, laughter echoing around the dinner table as you serve up this vibrant dish. The colors pop, the flavors sing, and suddenly, you’re the star of the show. Who knew that pasta could elevate your status from “just another cook” to “culinary genius”?

Sharing this dish with friends led to a memorable night filled with compliments and requests for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta of Your Choice: I prefer linguine for its smooth texture, but feel free to use spaghetti or penne.

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen works well; just ensure they are deveined and peeled for easy cooking.

• Pesto Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade adds a personal touch; basil brings freshness and vibrancy.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and color; choose ripe ones for maximum flavor.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan will enhance the dish’s richness; it melts beautifully into the pasta.

• Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil enhances flavor; use it generously when sautéing.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves create aromatic magic; never underestimate their power in this recipe.

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, these add just the right kick without overwhelming.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick together.

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque.

Add Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes: Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, stir in your pesto sauce and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional two minutes until everything is nicely warmed through and combined.

Combine Pasta: Drain your pasta reserving some cooking water. Add it directly to the skillet with shrimp and pesto mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly; if needed, add reserved pasta water for extra creaminess.

Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan over the top and give it one last gentle toss. The cheese should melt slightly into the warm pasta creating an irresistible creamy texture.

Enjoy plating this delightful creation! Serve immediately while it’s hot, garnished with more parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

This shrimp pesto pasta is not just food; it’s a celebration waiting to happen at your dinner table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve culinary harmony, cook the shrimp first until they’re pink, then toss in your cooked pasta with pesto for that perfect coating.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor kick. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can spice things up too.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid mushy pasta.

I once made this dish for a dinner party, and everyone was asking for seconds before I could even sit down!

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for shrimp pesto pasta?

Yes, just thaw them properly and pat dry before cooking for best results.

What type of pasta works best with pesto?

Any pasta shape works well, but linguine or fettuccine are particularly delightful.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap shrimp for sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for added flavor.

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Shrimp Pesto Pasta

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• Author: Rachel Lawson
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Shrimp pesto pasta is a delightful blend of succulent shrimp, vibrant pesto, and al dente pasta, creating a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. In just a short time, you can serve up this flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its burst of colors and flavors, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the aromatic garlic and the rich notes of parmesan as they elevate your dining experience to new heights.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, then add shrimp. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in pesto sauce and cherry tomatoes; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Toss Pasta: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the shrimp mixture. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water if necessary for creaminess.
5. Finish: Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan and toss again before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 190mg