Craving a cozy and delicious dinner that will impress your family or guests? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Pasta with Shrimp and Pesto. Combining the savory flavors of succulent shrimp with the fresh, herbal notes of pesto, this dish is a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive right into creating this mouthwatering dish together!
**Pasta with Shrimp and Pesto**
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse the ingredients until finely chopped.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto is well blended and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
4. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the prepared pesto. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the pesto. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them with the pasta, heating everything through for another minute. Make sure the shrimp are well coated with the pesto sauce.
7. Serve the Pasta with Shrimp and Pesto hot, garnished with some extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing touch. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish with your loved ones!
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences by adding other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also swap the shrimp for chicken, scallops, or tofu for a different twist on this versatile dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it a go-to option for any occasion. So, don’t hesitate to get creative and make this Pasta with Shrimp and Pesto your own signature dish!
