20-Minute Shrimp and Pesto Pasta
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of 20-Minute Shrimp and Pesto Pasta, a quick yet elegant dish that transforms your weeknight meals. With succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection and tossed with al dente pasta and fresh basil pesto, every bite promises a delightful experience. Perfect for busy evenings or unexpected guests, this dish is sure to impress without the hassle.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook linguine until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic; sauté until fragrant. Add shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until pink (3-4 minutes).
- Add the Pesto: Lower heat and stir in pesto with reserved pasta water until well combined.
- Toss in Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes; cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Combine Everything: Gently mix in drained pasta until well-coated in sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Plate immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese and an extra drizzle of olive oil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
Keywords: For a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free pasta. Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add vegetables like spinach for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.