This Easy 20-Minute Pesto Shrimp Pasta is a colorful and tasty dish. Juicy shrimp are tossed with pasta and fresh pesto, creating a meal that’s quick and full of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I often use penne, but you can switch it up with linguine or spaghetti based on what you have. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works well for healthier options.
Shrimp: Large, peeled shrimp are perfect here. If shrimp isn’t available, cooked chicken or even veggies like zucchini can make a great substitute!
Basil Pesto: Homemade pesto offers a fresh touch, but store-bought saves time. If you want a dairy-free option, look for vegan pesto or make your own with nuts and nutritional yeast.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a nice burst of flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, you can use sun-dried tomatoes for a different but delicious taste!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s easy! The key is to avoid overcooking. Here’s how you can get it just right:
- Start with medium-high heat to get a nice sear.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink, then flip.
- As soon as they are fully pink and opaque, remove them from heat. They should be slightly firm to the touch but not rubbery.
Don’t forget, they will continue to cook a bit after you take them off the heat!
Easy 20-Minute Pesto Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces (225g) pasta (penne, linguine, or spaghetti)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for color and freshness)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to make from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes preparing the shrimp and mixing everything together. It’s a quick and tasty option for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing and is slightly golden. Just be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This is quick, so keep an eye on them!
4. Add Cherry Tomatoes (Optional):
If you’re using cherry tomatoes, go ahead and add them to the skillet at this point. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are just slightly softened.
5. Combine Everything:
Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Then mix in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together, and if it feels a bit thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your liking.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. It should be deliciously flavorful!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your pasta immediately! Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. If you like, add a wedge of lemon on the side for a fresh squeeze when you dig in. Enjoy your meal!
Dig into your quick and flavorful Easy 20-Minute Pesto Shrimp Pasta—it’s sure to impress! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy 20-Minute Pesto Shrimp Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. You can quickly thaw them by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to avoid excess moisture!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and add more veggies instead! You could use zucchini, bell peppers, or even some sautéed mushrooms to add texture and flavor. You can also include protein like chickpeas for an extra boost!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of water or a bit more pesto to refresh the flavors as you reheat!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta, shrimp, and garlic in advance, then combine them with the pesto and cheese just before serving. This will save you time on busy nights!
