This Pesto Shrimp Pasta is a colorful and tasty dish that will brighten up your dinner! With juicy shrimp and fresh basil pesto, every bite is a little burst of flavor.
You can whip this up in no time, and it feels like a restaurant meal at home. Just toss the pasta, shrimp, and pesto together, and you’re ready to feast. I literally keep coming back for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or fettuccine works great, but feel free to swap with spaghetti or penne if you prefer. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used for a healthier option.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe, but you could substitute them with scallops or chicken breast if shrimp isn’t available. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Pesto: Homemade basil pesto adds freshness, but store-bought is super convenient! If you’re not a fan of basil, try sun-dried tomato pesto or even a spinach-based one.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a classic, but Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for flavor. You can also use avocado oil for a different twist!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Shrimp for Pesto Pasta?
Cooking shrimp to perfection is key for this dish! Here are some tips to ensure your shrimp are juicy and flavorful:
- Start with fresh or thawed shrimp. Pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture.
- Season them simply with salt and black pepper right before adding to the skillet.
- Cook over medium-high heat for just 2-3 minutes on each side. They’re done when they’re pink and opaque. Don’t overcook!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp that shine in your Pesto Shrimp Pasta!
Delicious Pesto Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta:
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- For Garnish:
- Optional: fresh basil leaves
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and another 10 minutes combining everything and garnishing. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This is usually about 8-10 minutes. While the pasta cooks, make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the shrimp, season them with salt and pepper, and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Once they’re done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Pesto Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to low and add the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the drained pasta, pesto, and some of the reserved pasta water—start with a little and add more if needed until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the pesto.
4. Combine Shrimp and Finish:
Now, add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the pasta and gently toss everything together until combined. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Pesto Shrimp Pasta immediately. Feel free to top it with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like things a little spicy. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or to run them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can cook the pasta and shrimp separately, then combine them with the pesto right before serving to keep everything fresh. Stored in the fridge, it should last up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Pesto?
If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a different flavor profile. You can also make a simple sauce with olive oil, garlic, and grated cheese if you prefer a lighter option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals or warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
