If you are searching for a dish that combines vibrant flavors with a luscious texture, look no further than this Easy & Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of nutty pistachio pesto and succulent shrimp tossed with tender pasta, creating an irresistible meal that feels both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe promises a rich, fresh, and satisfying taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and beautiful color. Each component plays a vital role, from the crunch of pistachios to the delicate umami of Parmesan cheese, making this recipe delightfully easy yet sophisticated.
- 12 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne): Choose your favorite shape to soak up the creamy pesto sauce perfectly.
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined): Adds a tender and juicy seafood touch that pairs beautifully with the pesto.
- 1 cup shelled unsalted pistachios: The star ingredient that brings a unique nutty richness and gorgeous green hue.
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves: Infuses the pesto with herby freshness and vibrant aroma.
- 2 cloves garlic: Gives the pesto a gentle kick of pungency that makes every bite interesting.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving): Adds creamy, salty depth and helps bind the pesto sauce.
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for cooking): Creates the silky, luscious texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering them.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Brings a subtle warmth to balance the richness of the dish.
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed): Helps loosen the sauce so it clings wonderfully to the noodles.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional): A splash of brightness that lifts and freshens the flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional): Adds a hint of heat and a pop of color to finish the dish.
How to Make Easy & Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cooking your pasta until al dente is crucial because it gives you that perfect chewy texture that holds up well against the creamy pistachio pesto. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining to adjust your sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Make the Pistachio Pesto
While the noodles cook, toss the pistachios, fresh basil leaves, fragrant garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese into a food processor. Pulse everything until you get a finely chopped, aromatic mixture. With the machine running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the pesto gets smooth and irresistibly creamy. Season with salt and pepper, taste, and set this emerald sauce aside—it is truly the heart of this recipe.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
In a large skillet heated over medium-high heat, drizzle in some olive oil. Season your peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely pink and become opaque. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so keep an attentive eye here!
Step 4: Combine Pasta with Pistachio Pesto
Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Pour the pistachio pesto over it and toss gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time. This step is essential for coating every strand with a silky, creamy layer of pesto. The water helps loosen the sauce just enough to cling perfectly to the noodles.
Step 5: Fold in the Shrimp and Final Touches
Carefully fold the cooked shrimp into the pasta and pesto mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. If you like, squeeze in a tablespoon of lemon juice for a refreshing zing that brightens the rich flavors. Your Easy & Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp Recipe is now ready to serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Easy & Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little finish can elevate this dish to restaurant quality. Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added creamy touch. A pinch of red pepper flakes introduces a subtle kick that contrasts nicely with the buttery pesto. A few torn basil leaves can also beautify the presentation and add fresh aroma.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light sides that complement its rich flavors. A crisp mixed green salad with a bright vinaigrette balances the meal perfectly. For a heartier option, crusty garlic bread or a warm focaccia offer a satisfying way to soak up any leftover pesto sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve this pasta in individual shallow bowls, layering the shrimp elegantly on top. Garnish with a lemon wedge on the side to offer guests a citrus option. You can also sprinkle toasted pistachios over the top for added texture and visual appeal, making this Easy & Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp Recipe both delicious and drop-dead gorgeous.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. This dish should stay fresh for up to three days, but try to enjoy it sooner for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Due to the creamy nature of the pistachio pesto, freezing this pasta is not recommended as it can cause the sauce to separate and lose its silky texture. Fresh is best when it comes to this delightful recipe.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently to maintain the creaminess of the pesto. Warm it slowly in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce seems too thick. Avoid microwaving directly for long periods to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine, spaghetti, or penne work wonderfully, feel free to use fusilli or farfalle if you prefer. The key is choosing a pasta shape that holds onto the creamy pistachio pesto well.
Is it possible to make the pistachio pesto ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pistachio pesto a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good stir and add a splash of olive oil before tossing it with the pasta to revive its creaminess.
Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?
Certainly! Grilled chicken, scallops, or even sautéed mushrooms make great alternatives if you want to switch things up while keeping that rich, creamy texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can finely chop the pistachios, basil, garlic, and Parmesan by hand, then whisk in olive oil slowly to form the pesto. It will take more time but yields a lovely, rustic texture.
Is the lemon juice necessary?
Lemon juice is optional but highly recommended as it brightens the dish and balances the richness of the pesto and shrimp. If you’re not a fan of citrus, you can leave it out without worrying about ruining the recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Easy & Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feel like a treat, yet it’s so straightforward to make. It’s a fantastic way to show off fresh, vibrant ingredients while enjoying a meal that’s packed with flavor, texture, and color. Whether you’re sharing it with family or serving it at a dinner party, this recipe is bound to become a favorite that keeps everyone coming back for more.
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Easy & Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easy & Creamy Pistachio Pesto Pasta with Shrimp is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining the nutty richness of pistachios with fresh basil and tender shrimp. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Pasta & Protein
- 12 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Pesto
- 1 cup shelled unsalted pistachios
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for cooking)
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Additional
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Pesto Base: While the pasta cooks, add pistachios, fresh basil leaves, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
- Blend the Pesto: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the pesto is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside the finished pesto.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat once cooked.
- Toss Pasta with Pesto: Place the cooked pasta in a large bowl or back into the pot. Toss with the pistachio pesto, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the pesto-coated pasta. Add lemon juice if you want a fresh, citrusy brightness.
- Serve: Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired for a touch of heat.
Notes
- Use unsalted pistachios to control the salt level in the pesto.
- If pasta water isn’t fully needed, add gradually to reach desired pesto consistency.
- Do not overcook shrimp; they cook quickly and can become rubbery.
- Lemon juice is optional but adds a nice brightness.
- Red pepper flakes add a pleasant spicy contrast but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
