Shrimp Pesto with Penne Pasta

Name: Shrimp Pesto with Penne Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup pine nuts; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup olive oil; Salt to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh spinach

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Shrimp Pesto with Penne Pasta on busy weeknights because it's incredibly quick yet impressively flavorful. The combination of succulent shrimp and vibrant pesto tossed with penne creates a dish that's not only satisfying but also feels gourmet. In just 30 minutes, I can serve up a vibrant meal that's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a surprise guest. Plus, it’s always a hit with my friends and family, who rave about the freshness of the ingredients!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-15T15:02:18.795Z

I first discovered the magic of shrimp pesto when I was looking for a quick yet elegant dish to impress my friends at a dinner party. As I mixed the fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts to create the pesto, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could elevate the shrimp and pasta to a whole new level. The key here is using high-quality pesto; it makes all the difference in flavor.

In another attempt to make the dish even more nutritious, I decided to add some cherry tomatoes and spinach. The colors were vibrant, and the flavor was incredible! I've learned that cooking pasta al dente adds a delightful texture that really complements the shrimp and pesto.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp perfectly complementing the fresh pesto
Nutty parmesan adds depth to the dish
Quick to prepare without compromising on taste

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of great pesto lies in the quality of its ingredients. Fresh basil leaves should be vibrant and fragrant, as they are the star in this recipe. If basil isn't available, arugula offers a peppery twist, while spinach can provide a milder flavor. Additionally, using freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged shreds enhances the texture and flavor of the final dish, bringing a rich nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.

Pine nuts are a traditional ingredient in pesto, contributing a creamy texture and earthiness. If you're allergic or prefer alternatives, sunflower seeds can work well, offering a similar crunch without the same allergenic properties. Remember to toast the nuts lightly in a dry skillet for about 3-4 minutes to boost their flavor before blending them into the pesto, as toasting brings out their natural oils and enhances the overall taste.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the shrimp correctly is crucial for perfect texture. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet; if necessary, cook in batches to ensure the shrimp sear properly. They should be cooked until they turn a vibrant pink and opaque, taking about 2-3 minutes per side. If they begin to curl tightly or get rubbery, you’ve gone too far! Once cooked, they should be juicy and tender, pairing perfectly with the al dente penne.

When combining the ingredients, consider tossing the pasta and shrimp off the heat. This step will help preserve the delicate flavors of the pesto, preventing any chance of it turning bitter from high heat exposure. If the combined dish appears too dry, gradually add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water until you achieve a glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Shrimp Pesto with Penne Pasta:

For the Pasta and Shrimp

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pesto

2 cups fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt to taste

Optional Add-ins

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh spinach

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect Shrimp Pesto with Penne Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped. While the processor is running, slowly add olive oil and blend until smooth. Season with salt.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, pesto, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. If using, add spinach and cherry tomatoes.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delightful dish of Shrimp Pesto with Penne Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or red pepper flakes before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components in advance. The pesto can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. A layer of olive oil on top helps retain its bright green color and flavor during storage. Additionally, you can cook the shrimp ahead of time and reheat gently in the skillet with more pesto just before serving.

If you're planning to serve this dish for a gathering, consider doubling the shrimp and pasta for larger portions. The preparation remains just as efficient, and leftovers can even be enjoyed chilled as a pasta salad, making it a versatile option for meal prep.

Serving Suggestions

For an added layer of visual appeal and flavor, serve the Shrimp Pesto with Penne Pasta on a bed of lightly sautéed spinach. This not only enhances the dish's nutritional profile but also provides a beautiful contrast of colors. A sprinkle of extra parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving can elevate the dish to a restaurant-quality presentation.

You can customize this dish further with a splash of lemon juice or a zest to brighten the flavors, especially if you're serving it during the warmer months. For a more gourmet twist, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper for a touch of heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What if I don’t have pine nuts?

You can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a similar texture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I make the pesto in advance?

Absolutely! You can store the pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.