Description
A fast and flavorful weeknight dinner, this Quick Creamy Pesto Shrimp Pasta combines juicy shrimp, fresh basil, and bowtie pasta in a rich, herby sauce that’s ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
For the shrimp:
10–12 large shrimp (about 10.5 ounces), peeled and deveined
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon olive oil
For the pasta and sauce:
5 ounces bowtie pasta (or another short pasta)
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1 large garlic clove, minced
1–2 fresh red chilies, finely sliced (optional)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup light cooking cream
3 tablespoons basil pesto
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1/2–1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until opaque and lightly seared. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the shallot and garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the sliced chilies if using and cook briefly.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the cooking cream, pesto, Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water. Mix until smooth and lightly thickened.
6. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and cayenne if using.
7. Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and an additional 2 tablespoons of pasta water. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Add more pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
8. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and most of the sliced basil. Warm gently, then remove from heat.
9. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Notes
You can substitute penne or rotini for bowtie pasta. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream and Parmesan. Adjust chili and pepper flakes based on spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Italian-American