Shrimp Pesto Pasta Sauce

Shrimp pesto pasta sauce is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and a creamy, rich texture. Tender shrimp is tossed in a fragrant basil pesto, making every bite deliciously herbaceous and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This shrimp pesto pasta recipe stands out for its simplicity and gourmet appeal. The garlicky pesto sauce pairs beautifully with the succulent shrimp, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. With minimal prep time and fresh ingredients, you can whip up this recipe in just 30 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Shrimp Pesto Pasta

Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.

Use fresh pesto: If you have time, make your own pesto with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan.

Reserve pasta water: Save a cup of pasta water before draining. It helps thin out the pesto sauce and adds a velvety texture.

Balance flavors: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can cut through the richness of the pesto and shrimp.

Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some variations to suit your taste:

Creamy Pesto Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a luscious, creamy texture.

Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

Low-Carb: Serve the shrimp pesto sauce over zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of pasta.

How to Serve Shrimp Pesto Pasta

Serve this dish warm, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a garnish of fresh basil leaves. Pair it with:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Store Shrimp Pesto Pasta

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers:

• In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the shrimp and pesto may be compromised.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make homemade pesto?

Blend fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?

Yes, chicken, scallops, or even tofu can work as substitutes.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Linguine and spaghetti are popular choices, but penne or farfalle also work well for holding the sauce.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

While it’s best fresh, you can prep the pesto sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Combine with freshly cooked pasta for the best results.

Yield: 6

Shrimp Pesto Pasta Sauce

Print

Shrimp pesto pasta sauce is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and a creamy, rich texture. Tender shrimp is tossed in a fragrant basil pesto, making every bite deliciously herbaceous and satisfying.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pesto:

• 3 cups fresh basil leaves (destemmed)
• ¼ cup slivered almonds
• 2 garlic cloves
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil

For the Shrimp & Pasta:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine basil, almonds, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely minced. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth. Set aside.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente according to the package. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Return the pasta to the pot with the shrimp. Add reserved pasta water and pesto, stirring until evenly coated. Serve in bowls, garnished with Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
5. Enjoy a bowl of fresh, zesty shrimp pesto pasta in under 30 minutes!

Nutrition Information

Yield

6

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 385Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 20gCholesterol 97mgSodium 467mgCarbohydrates 26gFiber 2gSugar 1gProtein 16g

Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Conclusion

Shrimp pesto pasta sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors and easy, elegant meals. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious. Experiment with variations, add your favorite veggies, and enjoy a dish that feels like a celebration in every bite.