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Pesto Shrimp Pasta

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600
A flavorful and easy-to-make pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp and vibrant basil pesto.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 oz spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

Pesto

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts as a substitute)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste N/A Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
  • Red pepper flakes optional for heat

Instructions 

  • Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside, saving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  • Blend basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Slowly add olive oil until smooth. Add lemon juice if desired.
  • Cook shrimp in olive oil over medium-high heat until pink, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
  • Combine pasta and shrimp in the skillet, add pesto, and toss. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed.
  • Optional: sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or basil if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, toast the pine nuts before blending into the pesto.
Calories: 600kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Basil, Pasta, shrimp