Pesto Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Pesto Shrimp Pasta, a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with the freshness of basil pesto and the richness of pasta. This recipe offers a perfect blend of savory and aromatic ingredients that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Follow these steps to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
3. Preparing the Shrimp
4. Cooking the Pasta
5. Making the Basil Pesto
6. Combining It All
7. Serving Your Pesto Shrimp Pasta
8. Tips and Variations
9. Nutritional Information
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
11. Conclusion

Introduction

Pesto Shrimp Pasta is a dish that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the vibrant flavors of homemade basil pesto sauce. This recipe not only tastes incredible but is also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these ingredients:

• 8 ounces of linguine or your preferred pasta
• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Basil Pesto:
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Preparing the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Cooking the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine (or your choice of pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Making the Basil Pesto

1. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
2. Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
4. Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. You can also add the juice of 1 lemon for a refreshing twist.

Combining It All

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the homemade basil pesto until the pasta is well coated.
2. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

Serving Your Pesto Shrimp Pasta

Divide the Pesto Shrimp Pasta among serving plates. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve it hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Customize your Pesto Shrimp Pasta by adding cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed spinach for extra flavor and color.
• Substitute the linguine with your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or fettuccine.
• For a creamier variation, add a splash of heavy cream to the pesto sauce.

Nutritional Information

• Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.
  • Calories: 450-500 per serving
  • Protein: 25-30g
  • Carbohydrates: 35-40g
  • Fat: 25-30g
  • Fiber: 3-4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking.

2. How can I store leftover Pesto Shrimp Pasta?

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I make the basil pesto in advance?

• Absolutely! Homemade basil pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or you can freeze it for several months.

4. Can I use store-bought pesto sauce?

• While homemade pesto offers the freshest flavor, you can use store-bought pesto for convenience. Just be sure to adjust the quantity according to your taste.

Conclusion

Pesto Shrimp Pasta is a delightful combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic basil pesto, and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or craving a flavorful weeknight dinner, this dish will not disappoint. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and savor each bite of this homemade culinary masterpiece!

Source: whatsinthepan.com