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Shrimp Pesto Pasta Recipe

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4.3 from 43 reviews

A quick and flavorful Shrimp Pesto Pasta recipe combining perfectly cooked shrimp with aromatic basil pesto, tender spaghetti, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This 20-minute dish is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner bursting with Mediterranean flavors.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 10 ounces dry spaghetti (can also use linguine or fettuccine)

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 pound medium to large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or equal parts garlic powder, dried basil, and dried oregano)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce and Garnishes

  • 3/4 cup basil pesto
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • Optional garnish: chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are just pink and opaque, indicating they are perfectly cooked. Turn off the heat.
  3. Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly, then add it directly into the pan with the cooked shrimp. Stir in the basil pesto thoroughly to coat both the pasta and shrimp evenly with the flavorful sauce.
  4. Add Fresh Ingredients: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese to the pan. Gently toss everything together to combine and allow the residual heat to soften the tomatoes slightly and melt the cheese.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh herb aroma and a pop of color. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • For best texture, do not overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery.
  • You can substitute the basil pesto with store-bought or homemade for convenience.
  • Feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
  • Parmesan cheese adds richness but can be omitted for a dairy-free variation.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Fat

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