Description
Welcome, food lovers! If you’re in search of a delicious and easy-to-make summer meal, Pesto Shrimp Mushroom Pasta is the perfect dish for you. This mouthwatering Mediterranean recipe is packed with flavors of basil pesto, juicy shrimp, and earthy mushrooms, making it an ideal choice for a quick dinner that feels indulgent. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and learn how to make this Pesto Shrimp Mushroom Pasta step-by-step!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for mushrooms)
- 8 ounces white mushrooms, sliced
- ¼ teaspoon salt (for mushrooms)
- ½ cup basil pesto
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 8 oz spiral pasta
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Optional substitutions:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and replace with more mushrooms or tofu.
- If you are gluten intolerant, swap regular pasta with gluten-free spiral pasta.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp, seasoning with ¼ teaspoon salt and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for about 3 minutes, turning the shrimp halfway through, until they are pink and fully cooked.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and season with ¼ teaspoon of salt.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften and release their liquid.
Step 3: Combine Shrimp and Pesto
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the mushrooms.
- Add ½ cup of basil pesto and ½ cup of chicken broth.
- Stir everything together over medium heat until well combined, then remove from the heat.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Meanwhile, cook the spiral pasta according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the shrimp and mushroom mixture, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated in the pesto sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Plate your delicious Pesto Shrimp Mushroom Pasta and top with freshly chopped basil for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor; store-bought versions work too, but homemade pesto can elevate the dish.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – they cook quickly and can turn rubbery if left in the pan too long.
- If you want a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta to the sauce.