Shrimp Pesto Pasta

Shrimp Pesto Pasta

Shrimp Pesto Pasta is a delicious and quick dish that combines succulent shrimp with vibrant pesto sauce and pasta. Here’s a simple recipe to make it:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the pesto sauce and mix until the pasta is well coated. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
   • If using, stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are heated through.
4. Serve:
   • Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy this flavorful Shrimp Pesto Pasta for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!