This 20-minute pesto shrimp pasta is a quick and tasty meal. Juicy shrimp and flavorful pesto come together with pasta for a dish that feels fancy but is super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne or spaghetti, but feel free to swap with any pasta you have on hand. Gluten-free pasta also works beautifully if needed!
Shrimp: Medium shrimp are my go-to for this dish, but you can use large shrimp or even canned tuna for a different twist. Just adjust cooking time accordingly!
Olive Oil: While olive oil brings richness, you can substitute with avocado oil or melt some butter for a different flavor profile if you prefer.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto saves time, but homemade is fantastic if you have fresh basil available. You can also use sun-dried tomato pesto or a nut-free version if you’re allergic to nuts.
Cherry Tomatoes: Optional, but they add a nice pop of color and flavor. If you don’t have them, consider using diced bell peppers or spinach for a veggie boost.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s key to keep them juicy! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use medium-high heat to ensure they cook quickly.
- Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They only need to turn pink and opaque!
- Remove them from heat immediately once done to prevent overcooking. This keeps them tender and flavorful!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time in your pasta dish!
Easy 20-Minute Pesto Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
Pesto and Seasonings:
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3/4 cup store-bought or homemade basil pesto
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Extras:
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. This includes about 10 minutes for cooking the pasta and 10 minutes for preparing the sauce with shrimp and tossing everything together. You’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta, saving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set it aside. This water will help bring everything together later.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While your pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season them with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! If you opted for the cherry tomatoes, toss them in next and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, lower the heat to medium and add the basil pesto along with the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time if you need to loosen the sauce.
5. Finish Up:
Squeeze the lemon juice over the pasta dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Mix well to combine all flavors.
6. Serve:
Dish out your pesto shrimp pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal while it’s warm and fresh!
Your quick, flavorful pesto shrimp pasta is ready to impress! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy 20-Minute Pesto Shrimp Pasta
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or linguine. Just adjust the cooking time as needed according to the pasta package instructions.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make it lighter, consider using whole grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber. You can also add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional content.
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 and shrimp, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and add the pesto!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to keep it moist.
