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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: I love using rotini for its ability to hold onto the pesto. If you can’t find rotini, fusilli or penne works great too. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if you’re avoiding wheat!

Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is wonderful, but frozen shrimp is just as good. Just thaw it properly before cooking. If you’re not a seafood fan, grilled chicken or sautéed veggies like bell peppers or zucchini could be tasty swaps!

Pesto: Store-bought pesto is convenient, but making your own is super easy and lets you control the flavors. Use fresh basil, garlic, nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts), cheese, and olive oil. If you need a nut-free version, go for sunflower seeds instead!

Parmesan: Grated Parmesan adds a delicious salty flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a plant-based Parmesan. I’ve even experimented with goat cheese for a creamy twist!

How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?

Cooking shrimp right is key! Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so timing is everything. Here’s how to avoid that:

• Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp. They should sizzle as soon as they hit the pan!
• Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a vibrant pink color and a “C” shape.
• Remove them from the pan as soon as they’re cooked to avoid carryover cooking. They will continue to cook a bit even after being taken off the heat!

How to Make Pesto Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

For the Sauce:

• 3/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For the Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Pesto Shrimp Pasta takes about 20 minutes total to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delightful meal that you can whip up on a busy weeknight or serve to impress guests!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Before you drain the pasta, make sure to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water—this will help make the sauce creamy! After draining the pasta, set it aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp:

While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Next, toss in the shrimp, season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn a lovely pink and are opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Make the Pesto Sauce:

Now, reduce the heat to medium, and add the basil pesto to the same skillet. Stir in the reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the pesto and create a silky sauce. If you like a creamier sauce, add in more pasta water until it’s just how you like it!

4. Combine Everything:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it well with the pesto sauce to ensure every piece is coated. Then, return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together. This is where the magic happens!

5. Finish and Serve:

Lastly, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and taste! Adjust with more salt, pepper, and if you enjoy a bit of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your flavorful, vibrant Pesto Shrimp Pasta!

Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a convenient option that can save you time. Just be sure to choose a brand that you enjoy the flavor of, as it will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.

What’s the Best Way to Thaw Frozen Shrimp?

The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to place them in the refrigerator overnight for even thawing. If you’re short on time, you can also place the shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Avoid using warm water, as it can make the shrimp cook unevenly.

How Can I Store Leftovers?

Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. You may want to add a splash of water or a bit more pesto to keep it moist!

Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Definitely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the shrimp, and you’ll have a delightful, colorful meal!