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Creamy Pesto Pasta with Grilled Shrimp

A delightful dish combining creamy pesto sauce with tender grilled shrimp, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Grill or grill pan
  • Food processor
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces Pasta Fettuccine or penne works well.
  • 1 pound Large shrimp Peeled and deveined.
  • 1 cup Pesto sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream For a creamy texture.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for added flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced to enhance the taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil For grilling the shrimp.
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
  • 1 handful Fresh basil For garnish.

Instructions
 

  • If making homemade pesto, combine 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, 2 cloves of garlic, and 1/4 cup of pine nuts in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
  • Slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of olive oil while the processor is running. Add 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  • In a bowl, toss 1 pound of shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  • Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from the grill and set aside.
  • In the pot with the warm pasta, add the prepared pesto sauce and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
  • Gently fold in the grilled shrimp and 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.

Notes

This dish is versatile; feel free to add vegetables or substitute proteins as desired.
Keyword Creamy Sauce, Pasta, Pesto, Shrimp