Spicy Shrimp with Pesto Noodles is a delightful dish perfect for anyone who craves a quick yet sophisticated meal. This recipe is great for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply satisfying your taste buds with vibrant flavors. Did you know that shrimp is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal? Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins!
| Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Servings | 5 Minutes | 10 Minutes | 15 Minutes | 350 Calories |
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of noodles
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Start by cooking your noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti (or your choice of noodles) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. This is where the magic happens as the shrimp absorbs all the delicious flavors from the garlic and spices!
Step 4: Once the shrimp is cooked, reduce the heat to low and add the fresh basil pesto to the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing the pesto to warm up for about 1-2 minutes. If the mixture seems too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Finally, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles are well coated with the pesto and shrimp mixture. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 200mg |
Helpful Tips and Recipe Variations
- Tip: If you want to add more vegetables, consider tossing in some cherry tomatoes or spinach just before adding the pesto to the shrimp.
- Shortcut: Use store-bought pesto to save time, or try making your own for a fresher taste!
- Swap: If shrimp isn’t your thing, this recipe works beautifully with chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian version!
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing salad for a light meal.
- Storage: Leftover Spicy Shrimp with Pesto Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
This Spicy Shrimp with Pesto Noodles recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for a cozy night in or entertaining guests. The combination of spicy shrimp and fresh basil pesto over zesty noodles is sure to impress anyone at the table.
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FAQs
Q: What noodles do you eat with pesto?
A: You can enjoy pesto with various types of noodles, including spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option. The choice depends on your preference!
Q: Do you heat pesto before adding to pasta?
A: Generally, you do not need to heat pesto before adding it to pasta. Simply mix it with the hot pasta, and it will warm up enough from the heat of the noodles.
Q: Is pesto considered spicy?
A: Traditional pesto is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or other spicy ingredients to give it a kick, which works well in the spicy shrimp version!
Q: What tastes good with pesto?
A: Pesto pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, vegetables, and even on sandwiches or as a dip. Its rich flavor complements many dishes.
