Shrimp pesto pasta combines bright basil pesto with tender shrimp for a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests. Simple to prepare and full of flavor, this pasta is sure to be a hit.
Why We Love This Shrimp Pesto Pasta Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Shrimp Pesto Pasta recipe. For one, it elevates the humble pasta dish with the bold flavors of a homemade pesto, leaving a lasting impression on your taste buds. The freshness of the basil provides a vibrant green color and a fragrant aroma, transforming your kitchen into an Italian herb garden.
Another reason for your love affair with this dish is its versatility. It’s incredibly easy to customize based on your personal preferences or what you have in your pantry. You can easily tweak the ingredients and create variations that fit your taste. Plus, this dish comes together quickly, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own home.
Ingredients for Shrimp Pesto Pasta
To prepare Shrimp Pesto Pasta, you will need the following fresh ingredients:
- 3 cups fresh basil leaves, destemmed
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
These ingredients combine to create a delightful symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more!
How to Make Shrimp Pesto Pasta
Creating this delectable dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward directions to whip up your own Shrimp Pesto Pasta:
Prepare the Pesto: Begin by making the pesto. In the bowl of a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, slivered almonds, garlic cloves, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse these ingredients until they are finely minced. With the machine still running, slowly pour in the extra-virgin olive oil. Continue processing until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set this vibrant green sauce aside.
Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until it reaches that perfect ‘al dente’ texture. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the remaining pasta, letting it sit in a colander.
Sauté the Shrimp: In the empty pasta pot, heat the tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the raw shrimp in a large bowl with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.
Combine Everything: Once your shrimp are perfectly cooked, return the drained pasta to the pot. Pour in the reserved pasta cooking water to help combine everything smoothly. Then, add the homemade pesto and stir the pasta until every strand is well coated with that wonderful green sauce.
Serve It Up: Divide the beautifully coated pasta and shrimp among serving bowls. You might want to add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for that finishing touch. Enjoy your fantastic creation!
By following these steps, you’ll have a beautiful plate of Shrimp Pesto Pasta that will impress your family and friends.
How to Serve Shrimp Pesto Pasta
When it comes to serving Shrimp Pesto Pasta, presentation is key. Here are some tips to make your dish truly shine:
- Choose the Right Dish: A large, shallow bowl is ideal for serving pasta, as it allows the vibrant colors to stand out and provides enough space for the shrimp and pesto to mingle.
- Garnish Wisely: A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a few extra slivers of almonds can enhance both the taste and visual appeal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a few cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of microgreens for color.
- Add Freshness: A wedge of lemon on the side allows diners to add a splash of citrus to their liking, enhancing the zesty flavor of the dish.
- Accompany with Sides: This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a light side salad, some crisp garlic bread, or even a simple vegetable medley.
By following these serving suggestions, you’re bound to impress anyone fortunate enough to join you for dinner.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Shrimp Pesto Pasta
To elevate your Shrimp Pesto Pasta to new heights, consider these expert tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil is key to a flavorful pesto. Opt for vibrant, fragrant leaves and avoid any that look wilted.
- Adjust the Consistency: If your pesto is too thick, feel free to add more olive oil or a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on your shrimp while cooking. They only need a few minutes until fully cooked. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so once they’re pink and opaque, remove them immediately.
- Taste As You Go: Always sample your dish during cooking, especially for seasoning adjustments. A little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon can make a world of difference.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrition and flavor. They’re great options to boost the dish without compromising its integrity.
Implementing these tips can help you create a memorable meal that dazzles your taste buds.
How to Store Shrimp Pesto Pasta
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you might have leftovers that you’d like to preserve. Here’s how to store your Shrimp Pesto Pasta properly:
Cool Down: Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can create a watery mess in your storage container.
Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container to keep it fresh. The container should be appropriately sized to limit air exposure.
Store in the Fridge: You can keep your Shrimp Pesto Pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat it in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warm.
Add Moisture When Reheating: If you find the pasta has dried out during storage, adding a splash of olive oil or a little reserved cooking water can help restore some moisture.
By storing your leftovers properly, you can enjoy a delicious meal even on your busiest days.
Variation of Shrimp Pesto Pasta
The wonderful thing about Shrimp Pesto Pasta is its adaptability. Here are some creative variations to inspire you:
- Creamy Pesto Style: For a richer dish, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the pesto before combining it with the pasta. This will create a creamy, decadent version that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
- Vegetarian Option: If you prefer to skip the shrimp, simply substitute with grilled vegetables or a mix of mushrooms. This will not only retain the flavor but also turn it into a vibrant vegetarian dish.
- Citrusy Twist: Amp up the lemony flavor by adding a bit of orange juice or zest into the pesto. This citrus twist can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory elements.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the shrimp seasoning. This will give the dish a zesty kick that elevates it even more.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using whole wheat spaghetti or any alternative pasta, such as zucchini noodles (zoodles), for a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor.
Each variation provides its unique twist, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dish in new ways.
FAQ About Shrimp Pesto Pasta
How can I make Shrimp Pesto Pasta dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, you can easily substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese in the pesto. This will give you a similarly cheesy flavor without using dairy products.
Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?
Absolutely! While homemade pesto offers a fresher taste, using a quality store-bought pesto can save you time. Just be mindful of the flavor; make sure you enjoy the brand you choose since it will define the dish.
What type of shrimp should I use for Shrimp Pesto Pasta?
For the best results, opt for fresh or frozen raw shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. Choose medium or large shrimp based on your preference, as they will easily soak up the flavors of the pesto.
Can I make this dish in advance for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare the pesto a few days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the shrimp and pasta on the day you plan to serve it to ensure freshness.
How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?
To prevent rubberiness, make sure to keep a close eye on the shrimp while cooking. Once they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat to avoid overcooking.
Is Shrimp Pesto Pasta suitable for freezing?
While it’s possible to freeze the dish, pasta tends to lose its texture when thawed. If you must freeze it, opt for freezing only the shrimp and pesto separately, and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy the meal.
Shrimp Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
Pesto Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh basil leaves, destemmed Use vibrant and fragrant leaves.
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds For a nutty flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic Fresh garlic enhances flavor.
- 1 whole lemon (zest and juice) For brightness and acidity.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Adds richness.
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil Use high-quality oil for best taste.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti Cook according to package instructions.
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed Medium or large shrimp work best.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the shrimp.
- to taste none Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as necessary.
Instructions
Preparation of Pesto
- In the bowl of a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, slivered almonds, garlic cloves, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely minced.
- With the machine still running, slowly pour in the extra-virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Cooking Pasta and Shrimp
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain.
- In the empty pasta pot, heat the tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then add to the pot and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
Combining Ingredients
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Pour in reserved pasta cooking water to help combine. Add the pesto and stir until every strand is well coated.
- Divide among serving bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.