Pasta with Pesto and Shrimp: A Delightful Italian-Inspired Dish

Pasta with pesto and shrimp is the perfect combination of fresh, aromatic flavors and succulent shrimp, all tossed together with al dente pasta. This dish is a great way to bring the taste of Italy to your table, using vibrant basil pesto that complements the sweetness of the shrimp. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients:

• 300 g pasta (such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne)
• 400 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Al dente pasta means that it is cooked through but still has a slight firmness when bitten. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, which can be used to adjust the sauce later.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much, as it can become bitter.

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. The shrimp should be tender and juicy, adding a delightful texture to the dish.

3. Combine Pasta and Pesto

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the cooked pasta. Stir in the fresh basil pesto, making sure the pasta is evenly coated. If the pesto sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach the desired consistency. The warm pasta will absorb the rich flavors of the pesto, creating a beautifully creamy sauce.

4. Add the Shrimp to the Pasta

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the pasta and pesto. Toss everything together gently until the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the pasta. At this point, you can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness of the pesto.

5. Serve and Garnish

Transfer the pasta with pesto and shrimp to serving plates or a large serving bowl. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately while the dish is warm and fragrant, offering a taste of summer with every bite.

Variations and Tips

This pasta with pesto and shrimp is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand:

• Use Different Types of Pesto: While traditional basil pesto is classic, you can try variations like arugula pesto, sun-dried tomato pesto, or even a walnut-based pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: For a more complete meal, consider adding sautéed cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini. These vegetables complement the flavors of the shrimp and pesto beautifully.
• Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for a spicy kick that pairs well with the shrimp.
• Swap the Pasta: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, from long strands like fettuccine to short cuts like rotini. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works well in this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Pasta with pesto and shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• As a Main Dish: Serve it on its own for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
• With a Side Salad: Pair this pasta with a fresh green salad, such as a simple arugula salad with olive oil and lemon dressing, to balance the rich flavors.
• With Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread or a fresh baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra pesto sauce, making every bite even more delicious.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

How to Make Homemade Basil Pesto

For those who want to make their own pesto, here’s a quick recipe:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ⅓ cup pine nuts
• 2 garlic cloves
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Combine the basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped. Gradually add the olive oil while the processor is running until the pesto is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This pesto can be used in the pasta recipe and is perfect for spreading on sandwiches or using as a dip.

Conclusion

Pasta with pesto and shrimp is a delicious and easy recipe that brings together the best of Italian flavors. The creamy basil pesto, juicy shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta make this dish a favorite for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it out and enjoy the fresh, vibrant taste of pesto and shrimp in every bite!