Quick & Tasty Pesto Shrimp Pasta

Fresh basil sauce and tender seafood create a vibrant, effortless dinner to savor.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach
Created on

Introduction to Pesto Shrimp Pasta

Looking for a quick and delicious Italian dish that combines the freshness of pesto with the succulence of shrimp? Look no further This Pesto Shrimp Pasta recipe is a culinary delight that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. It’s perfect for a busy evening when you need something quick and satisfying.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe stands out due to its unique blend of flavors and textures. The pesto sauce, made from basil, garlic, and parmesan, adds a vibrant and creamy element, while the shrimp provides protein and a pop of color. Additionally, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a favorite among home cooks.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup pesto sauce
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated parmesan cheese for serving
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal preparation. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Mix the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to release their juices. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced slightly. Then, stir in the pesto sauce and cook for about a minute.
  4. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pesto sauce. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve: Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh parsley or basil.

Personal Touch: Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something special about twirling a forkful of pasta coated in a vibrant pesto sauce and enjoying the succulent bite of shrimp. It’s a taste of Italy in every bite, and it’s a dish that never fails to brighten up a typical weeknight dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first and pat dry with paper towels before cooking.

Q: How can I make this recipe more substantial?

A: Adding some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can make the dish more filling. You can also add some cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.

Q: Can I make pesto from scratch?

A: Absolutely Mix together basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a food processor until you get a smooth paste.

Conclusion

This Pesto Shrimp Pasta recipe is a delightful and easy way to enjoy the flavors of Italy in the comfort of your home. With its vibrant pesto sauce and succulent shrimp, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Sneha Tete
Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete