Creamy Pesto Shrimp is a delightful and indulgent seafood dish that combines the freshness of shrimp with the rich and aromatic flavors of pesto sauce. This recipe is a perfect choice for those seeking a quick and delicious meal with a touch of elegance.
To prepare Creamy Pesto Shrimp, start with large, succulent shrimp. These are sautéed in a creamy pesto sauce made from a blend of fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. The pesto sauce provides a burst of vibrant green color and a harmonious mix of herbal and nutty notes that perfectly complement the sweetness of the shrimp.
The creamy element in this dish comes from heavy cream or half-and-half, which is added to the pesto sauce, creating a luscious and velvety texture. The creaminess balances the bold flavors of the pesto and adds a touch of indulgence to the dish.
Creamy Pesto Shrimp is a versatile recipe that can be served over various bases. It pairs exceptionally well with pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, creating a complete and satisfying meal. Alternatively, it can be served over rice, quinoa, or even on a bed of sautéed spinach for a low-carb option.
This dish is a crowd-pleaser and is often chosen for special occasions or date nights at home. Its vibrant colors and captivating aroma make it not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the senses. Whether you’re a fan of shrimp or a pesto enthusiast, Creamy Pesto Shrimp is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Step 2: Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Stir in linguine and return to a boil. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 to 10 minutes; drain.
Step 3: Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in cream and season with pepper; cook, stirring constantly, for 6 to 8 minutes.
Step 4: Stir Parmesan cheese into cream sauce until thoroughly mixed. Stir in pesto and cook until thickened, 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 5 minutes. Serve sauce over hot linguine.
Awesome recipe!I added some Cajun seasonings as well as chicken and mixed it all together rather than serving on top of the pasta...delicious!
I accidentally forgot to get prawns but it goes great with chicken thigh! Quick and easy.
This recipe is delicious. I added onions, mushrooms and sauteed that in the butter until the cream was added. When that started to simmer I added the cheese and put on the water to boil. Once boiing, I started the fettuccini and added the shrimp (which I had doused with Old Bay). I always cook pasta a minute less than the package directions because it continues cooking while you drain it. When finished, I put it all in a serving bowl with fresh spinach on top. The only problem is I want to keep eating it.
Whatever you do, just do not mix the noodles into the same pot as the cream like you're making lazy spaghetti, because the noodles will absorb the sauce and it will not be as saucy as you like or think it should be. Just put the noodles on a plate and then put the shrimp and sauce over the noodles as soon as it is done and still hot.
Very easy to make. Used shredded parm which can make creamier. Honestly would have liked it better with out the shrimp.
Delicious!
Really easy and decadent. VERY rich. I could only eat a small portion. But totally worth it. I sauteed some very thinly sliced garlic into the butter before adding the cream. I also added some halved cherry tomatoes at the end for a pop of color and flavor.
5/17- Quick and easy. Even Riley loved it. Will do it again. Followed the recipe as written. Could use garlic, and maybe mushrooms.
I can’t complain. With garlic sticks my family enjoyed. To my surprise my mom ate some😁
✅How do I make the perfect creamy pesto sauce for Creamy Pesto Shrimp?
To make the perfect creamy pesto sauce for Creamy Pesto Shrimp, start by blending fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor or blender until smooth. Then, add heavy cream or half-and-half to the pesto mixture and blend until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. Adjust the amount of cream to your desired thickness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and your creamy pesto sauce is ready to enhance the flavor of your shrimp dish.
✅What type of shrimp is best for Creamy Pesto Shrimp, and how should I prepare it?
Large, succulent shrimp work best for Creamy Pesto Shrimp. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, but ensure they are peeled and deveined for convenience. To prepare the shrimp, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain their tenderness. Once the shrimp are cooked, add the creamy pesto sauce to the skillet and simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
✅What are some suitable bases to serve with Creamy Pesto Shrimp?
Creamy Pesto Shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of bases. The most popular choice is pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, as it allows the creamy pesto sauce to cling to the noodles. Additionally, you can serve it over cooked rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. For a low-carb option, consider serving Creamy Pesto Shrimp on a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles. The choice of base is flexible, allowing you to customize your meal according to your preferences.
✅Can I make Creamy Pesto Shrimp ahead of time?
While Creamy Pesto Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some elements ahead of time. You can make the pesto sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, sauté the shrimp and reheat the sauce, then combine them for a quick and convenient meal. However, it's advisable to cook the shrimp just before serving to ensure they remain tender and flavorful.
✅What are some optional garnishes or additions to enhance Creamy Pesto Shrimp?
To enhance the presentation and flavor of Creamy Pesto Shrimp, you can garnish it with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese. For added texture and a hint of nuttiness, consider sprinkling toasted pine nuts on top. Some people also like to drizzle a touch of extra-virgin olive oil over the dish for extra richness. These optional garnishes and additions can elevate the overall dining experience and make your Creamy Pesto Shrimp even more enticing.
