There’s something undeniably comforting about sitting down to a delicious meal with loved ones at the end of a long day. Today, we’re diving into a dish that perfectly captures that feeling – Best Shrimp Pesto Pasta. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, vibrant pesto, and al dente pasta for a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s gather our ingredients and get cooking!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 ounces of pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti)
– 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/3 cup of pine nuts
– 2 cloves of garlic
– 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, fresh basil leaves
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pesto:** In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the pesto aside.
2. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water.
3. **Cook the Shrimp:** In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. **Combine Everything:** Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Add the prepared pesto and toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. **Serve:** Divide the shrimp among serving plates and top with a generous helping of the pesto pasta. Garnish with cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
This Best Shrimp Pesto Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy pesto pairs beautifully with the juicy shrimp, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or protein – the possibilities are endless. So, grab your apron and cook up a batch of this delightful pasta dish for your next gathering. Your guests will thank you for it!
