Shrimp Pasta with Pesto
This Shrimp Pasta with Pesto is a quick, vibrant, and protein-packed meal featuring juicy garlic shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich basil pesto sauce. Tossed with cherry tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese, it’s a restaurant-quality dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes.Perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or meal prep, this Mediterranean-inspired pasta is bursting with fresh flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in 30 minutes
High in protein
Fresh Mediterranean flavors
Family-friendly
Perfect for meal prep
Easy yet impressive
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Juice of ½ lemon
For the Pasta
12 ounces penne, linguine, fettuccine, or rotini
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups baby spinach
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Basil Pesto Sauce
½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
¼ cup reserved pasta water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Optional Garnishes
Extra Parmesan cheese
Pine nuts
Red pepper flakes
Fresh basil leaves
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with:
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Smoked paprika
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Lemon juice
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Saute the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add:
Cherry tomatoes
Cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
Add:
Spinach
Cook until wilted.
Step 5: Make the Pesto Sauce
Reduce heat to low.
Stir together:
Basil pesto
Reserved pasta water
Lemon juice
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet.
Toss gently until evenly coated in the pesto sauce.
Stir in Parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Serve
Divide among serving bowls.
Garnish with:
Fresh basil
Parmesan cheese
Pine nuts
Red pepper flakes
Lemon wedges
Serve immediately.
Notes & Tips
Recipe Notes
Fresh basil pesto provides the best flavor.
Shrimp cook quickly, so avoid overcooking.
Reserved pasta water helps create a silky sauce.
Expert Tips
Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor.
Pat the shrimp dry before cooking for a better sear.
Add roasted asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli for extra vegetables.
For a creamier sauce, stir in 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Fully thaw and pat dry before cooking.
What pasta works best?
Linguine, penne, fettuccine, rotini, bowtie, or spaghetti all work beautifully.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use a dairy-free pesto and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Can I use chicken instead?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken works wonderfully with pesto.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 545
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Sodium: 620mg
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Pasta with Pesto is a fresh, flavorful, and protein-rich meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Juicy garlic shrimp, tender pasta, vibrant basil pesto, and fresh vegetables come together in a simple yet elegant dish that’s guaranteed to become a favorite.