Pesto Shrimp Mushroom Pasta Recipe

A mouthwatering blend of tender shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and rich pesto sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal to impress guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Flavorful: The pesto sauce adds a vibrant, herbaceous kick to the savory shrimp and mushrooms.
• Versatile: Customize it with your choice of pasta and additional veggies.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A dish that’s sure to be a hit with seafood and pasta lovers alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work well)
• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Mushrooms, sliced
• Pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté mushrooms until golden brown and tender, about 5-6 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the shrimp to the skillet and reduce heat to low. Stir in the pesto sauce and mix until evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
5. Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit shrimp and add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes.
• Different Pesto: Try using sun-dried tomato pesto or roasted red pepper pesto for a unique flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long, as it can become rubbery.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw them completely before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

2. What type of mushrooms work best?

Button, cremini, or portobello mushrooms all work well in this recipe.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love will work.

4. Is store-bought pesto okay?

Yes, high-quality store-bought pesto works well if you’re short on time.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan cheese.

6. How can I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them from the heat.

7. Can I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sautéed shrimp for some heat.

8. What’s the best way to make homemade pesto?

Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Season to taste.

9. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end to avoid overcooking.

10. Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well, making it a great option for packed lunches.

Conclusion

Pesto Shrimp Mushroom Pasta is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich pesto sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you stick to the recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this pasta dish is a guaranteed hit. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Print