Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp: 7 Delightful Layers

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Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp is a dish that combines tender, pesto-coated pasta with juicy grilled shrimp, creating an elegant meal for special occasions or cozy dinners at home. With the fresh flavors of basil and the smoky taste of shrimp, this dish is both delicious and visually appealing, making it perfect for date nights or gatherings. Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp

This Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp recipe is not only quick and easy but also a great way to enjoy healthy ingredients. Here are a few reasons why you’ll want to try this dish:

Quick preparation time—perfect for weeknight dinners.
Offers a unique blend of flavors with fresh basil pesto and grilled shrimp.
High in protein, making it a satisfying meal.
Customizable with your favorite pasta shapes and additional ingredients.
A great way to impress guests with minimal effort.
Can be made gluten-free with the right pasta choice.
Perfect for summer meals or outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients for Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp

Gather these items:

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
12 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fusilli)
¾ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: cherry tomatoes (halved)
Optional: extra Parmesan cheese
Optional: fresh basil leaves
Optional: lemon wedges

How to Make Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp Step-by-Step

Step 1: Toss shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl and let marinate for 15–20 minutes.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Step 3: Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 4: Return pasta to the pot and toss with pesto, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper.
Step 5: Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce and fold in halved cherry tomatoes if using.
Step 6: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and lightly charred.
Step 7: Twirl pesto pasta into a mound using tongs or a ring mold, and arrange grilled shrimp neatly on top.
Step 8: Finish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a squeeze of lemon.
Step 9: Serve immediately while warm and fresh.

Pro Tips for the Best Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp

Keep these in mind:

Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Let the pasta cool slightly before adding the pesto to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Best Ways to Serve Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp

Here are a few serving ideas:

Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Serve alongside garlic bread for a delightful dinner experience.
This dish also makes for an excellent lunch option the next day.

How to Store and Reheat Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture. This dish is also great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp

What’s the secret to perfect Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp?

The secret lies in marinating the shrimp just right and using high-quality basil pesto. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and the shrimp remains tender and juicy.

Can I make Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and pasta a few hours in advance, then combine them when ready to serve. Just remember to save the pesto for the last minute to keep the pasta fresh.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp?

Common mistakes include overcooking the shrimp or pasta. Always keep an eye on cooking times, and taste as you go to achieve that perfect texture in both.

Variations of Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp You Can Try

There are plenty of delicious variations to consider:

Substitute shrimp for scallops for a different seafood experience.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
For a creamy twist, mix in some heavy cream with the pesto.

Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp: 7 Delightful Layers - Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp - main visual representation

For more delicious pasta recipes, check out our Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta or Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Recipe.

Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp: 7 Delightful Layers - Pesto Pasta Grilled Shrimp - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of shrimp, visit Healthline.