Pesto shrimp pasta is a quick and yummy dish that combines tender shrimp with pasta coated in rich, green pesto sauce. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!
You’ll love how easy this meal is to whip up on a busy weeknight. Just toss everything together, and you’re ready to eat! Who doesn’t enjoy dinner in under 30 minutes? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works well here, but you can use any pasta like penne or fettuccine. If you’re gluten-free, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta for a similar texture.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect, but medium will do too. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp are a great substitute. Just make sure they are peeled and deveined!
Pesto: Fresh basil pesto gives the best flavor. You can use homemade or store-bought. If you’re allergic to nuts, look for nut-free pesto, or you can blend basil with olive oil and Parmesan for a quick version.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its bold flavor. If you’re out, use garlic powder, but cut back on the amount since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s easy once you know a few tips. You want them to be just cooked, not rubbery!
- Heat the oil in the skillet before adding garlic; this brings out the flavor.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink when fully cooked.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have too many shrimp, cook them in batches for even cooking.
With these tips, your pesto shrimp pasta will be not only delicious but also made with perfectly cooked shrimp! Enjoy! 🍤🍝
Pesto Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
For the Sauce and Garnish:
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh basil or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but delicious enough for special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before you drain it. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn a lovely pink color when they are done. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
Now lower the heat to medium and add the drained pasta to the skillet. Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly. If it looks too dry, pour in some of that reserved pasta water, little by little, until you achieve a nice consistency.
5. Finish Up:
Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Taste and season with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you’d like a bit of spice.
6. Serve:
Dish up your vibrant Pesto Shrimp Pasta immediately. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh basil or parsley for that final touch. Enjoy every delicious bite!
This dish is not just easy to make, but it’s also a colorful and tasty way to impress your family or friends. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Just remember to pat them dry before adding them to the skillet!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the shrimp and add some sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus instead. You can also add a protein like chickpeas or tofu for extra heartiness!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out, and warm it gently on the stove or microwave.
What Pasta Alternatives Can I Use?
If you need a gluten-free option, feel free to use gluten-free pasta or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes for a lighter meal. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it’s cooked perfectly!
