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Pesto Shrimp Pasta

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Pesto Shrimp Pasta is a fresh and flavorful meal featuring tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and aromatic basil pesto. This quick Mediterranean-inspired dish is ideal for busy weeknights or elegant entertaining.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces linguine, spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)
  • Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • Toasted pine nuts (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  4. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
  5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  8. Whisk together the pesto, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water in a small bowl.
  9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp.
  10. Pour the pesto mixture over the pasta and toss gently to coat.
  11. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  12. Garnish with basil, extra Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, or red pepper flakes if desired.
  13. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Store-bought or homemade pesto both work well.
  • Add spinach, asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to maintain a silky sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pesto-shrimp-pasta/