Fragrant Homemade Basil Pesto Shrimp Pasta
Fragrant Homemade Basil Pesto Shrimp Pasta
How to Make Refreshing Basil Pesto Shrimp Pasta at Home
Tired of always making tomato or cream-based pasta? When I got some basil pesto, I tried making basil pasta with shrimp, and the aroma was absolutely wonderful! This recipe is perfect for when you want a change from your usual pasta dishes and crave something fresh and aromatic.
Ingredients- Basil Pesto: 2 Tbsp
- Cocktail Shrimp: 15 pcs
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Pasta: 2 servings (approx. 180-200g)
- Olive Oil: 3 Tbsp
- Salt: 1 Tbsp (for pasta water)
- Parsley Flakes: A pinch (for garnish)
- Grana Padano or Parmesan Cheese: A pinch (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thinly slice 3 cloves of garlic. If using frozen cocktail shrimp, thaw them by soaking in water beforehand. Drain the shrimp well. For larger shrimp, you can make a shallow cut to help them cook faster and absorb flavors better.
Step 2
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 Tbsp of salt to the water. Add the pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, or according to the package instructions, until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy water will be useful for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
Step 3
While the pasta is cooking, heat 3 Tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add the sliced garlic and gently sauté until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitter flavor. You want to infuse the oil with garlic aroma.
Step 4
Once the garlic is fragrant, add the thawed cocktail shrimp to the skillet. Sauté over medium heat until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the shrimp tough.
Step 5
Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the shrimp and garlic oil. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the oil.
Step 6
Now, add 2 Tbsp of basil pesto to the skillet. Stir quickly to combine the pesto with the pasta and shrimp, ensuring everything is well coated. You’ll immediately notice the wonderful fresh aroma of basil.
Step 7
If the pasta seems too dry or thick, gradually add a little of the reserved pasta water (start with 2-3 Tbsp). The pasta water will help emulsify the sauce, making it smoother and helping the pesto cling to the pasta. Add more water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 8
Once everything is well combined and the sauce has reached your preferred consistency, transfer the pasta to a serving plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley flakes and a dusting of Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious and fragrant basil pesto shrimp pasta!
