Picture this: It’s midweek, you’re exhausted, and the last thing you want is a complicated meal—enter the savior of busy nights, Shrimp Pesto Pasta. It’s like a warm hug from an old friend, quick and fuss-free, with the bright, fresh flavors of basil and garlic dancing on your tastebuds. Honestly, it’s faster than scrolling through endless TikToks, and way more satisfying.
Steps
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over high heat. Season the shrimp with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then saute them for 2-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pan with the shrimp. Stir in the pesto sauce until the pasta is well coated.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkle parmesan cheese over the pasta. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces dry spaghetti (alternatives: linguine or fettuccine)
- 3/4 cup basil pesto
- 1 pound medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of garlic powder, dried basil, and dried oregano)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1624kcal | Carbohydrates: 150g | Protein: 121g | Fat: 78g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 708mg | Sodium: 2684mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 8g
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta for shrimp pesto pasta?
- Absolutely! While the recipe suggests using spaghetti, you can substitute it with other pasta types such as linguine or fettuccine. Choose what you prefer or have on hand.
- Is it necessary to make homemade pesto for this recipe?
- Not at all. Using store-bought pesto is perfectly fine and can save you time. The refrigerated versions, like those from Kirkland at Costco, often have superior flavor compared to shelf-stable options.
- What can I add to shrimp pesto pasta for extra flavor?
- You can enhance the dish by adding ingredients like parmesan cheese, fresh tomatoes, and herbs such as parsley or basil. For more texture, consider including pine nuts or sautéed zucchini.
- How can I make this meal more suitable for entertaining guests?
- You can elevate this dish by serving it with a loaf of bread and a green salad, making it an elegant option for company.
- How long does it take to prepare shrimp pesto pasta?
- This dish is designed to be quick and easy, taking approximately 20 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for a speedy dinner.
Tips
- Opt for refrigerated pesto over the shelf-stable variety, as it generally offers a superior flavor. Brands like Kirkland from Costco are highly recommended for this dish.
- Don’t limit yourself to spaghetti; linguine or fettuccine can be excellent alternatives for this recipe, providing a slightly different texture and flavor experience.
- Consider adding extra ingredients for more depth of flavor, such as pine nuts or sautéed zucchini, which can complement the existing components beautifully.
- If you’re short on fresh herbs, parsley is a great choice, but basil can also work well. However, feel free to skip the herbs if they’re not readily available.
Equipment
- Large Pot – For boiling the pasta.
- Large Pan or Skillet – For sautéing the shrimp and combining all the ingredients.
- Pasta Strainer/Colander – To drain the cooked pasta.
- Chef’s Knife – For chopping ingredients like tomatoes and parsley.
- Cutting Board – For preparing ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – To measure out the pesto, olive oil, and other ingredients accurately.
