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pesto shrimp pasta
Sofia

pesto shrimp pasta

A vibrant, herby pasta dish tossed with juicy shrimp and fresh pesto. This quick, flavor-packed meal is perfect for weeknights but elegant enough to serve to guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta spaghetti, linguine, or penne
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup pesto store-bought or homemade
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Shrimp
  4. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the Shrimp
  6. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
  7. Combine Pasta and Pesto
  8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss with pesto, Parmesan, and lemon juice. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  9. Serve
  10. Plate the pasta and top with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Pesto Options: Classic basil pesto works great, but feel free to try sun-dried tomato, arugula, or spinach pesto for variety.
  • Shrimp Tip: Make sure not to overcook the shrimp — they cook quickly and should be just opaque.
  • Extra Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta to the pesto for a creamy twist.
  • Make It Ahead: You can cook the pasta and shrimp in advance and toss everything together just before serving.