This light shrimp and pesto pasta dish is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The succulent shrimp pairs perfectly with the fresh and vibrant pesto sauce, creating a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add pesto sauce to the skillet with the shrimp, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Pesto sauce originated in Genoa, Italy and traditionally consists of basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
Shrimp is a low-calorie source of protein that is rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.