Name: Pesto Shrimp With Homemade Pesto Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup Pesto; 1 lb shrimp; ½ cup parmesan cheese

Bring the taste of Italy to your dinner table with this pesto shrimp recipe. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner, this dish combines the succulent flavors of shrimp with the aromatic and vibrant taste of homemade pesto. It's a refreshing and light dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Photos of Pesto Shrimp With Homemade Pesto Recipe

While the shrimp and parmesan cheese are common ingredients, the pesto might not be readily available. It's usually found in the Italian or refrigerated section of most supermarkets. However, to ensure the freshest taste, this recipe includes making your own pesto from scratch.

Ingredients for Pesto Shrimp and Homemade Pesto

Pesto: A sauce originating from Italy. It's made by crushing garlic, pine nuts, salt, basil leaves, parmesan cheese and olive oil together.

Shrimp: Shrimp is a sea creature that is a rich source of protein and also provides a variety of other vitamins and minerals.

Parmesan cheese: This is a hard, granular cheese that originates from Italy. It has a sharp, complex fruity/nutty taste with a strong savory flavor.

One reader, Allina Kingsley says:

The pesto shrimp with homemade pesto recipe is a game-changer! The homemade pesto adds a burst of fresh flavors to the succulent shrimp. It's a delightful dish that's easy to make and impresses every time. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Allina Kingsley

Techniques Required

How to make homemade pesto: A simple and classic pesto recipe made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. How to marinate shrimp: The process of marinating shrimp in pesto to infuse it with flavor before cooking. How to cook shrimp: The technique of cooking shrimp in a skillet until they turn pink and opaque, typically taking 1 to 2 minutes on each side. How to garnish with parmesan cheese: The final step of adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to the dish before serving.

How To Make Pesto Shrimp With Homemade Pesto

You can’t get enough of this pesto shrimp made with homemade pesto and garnished with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight meal.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cuppesto,divided
1lbshrimp,peeled and deveined
½cupparmesan cheese

Instructions

Add the shrimp to the pesto (reserve two tablespoons) and let sit for 15 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the shrimp (scrape off the pesto) to the pan, cooking on each side for 1 to 2 minutes.
Transfer to a bowl and toss with the remaining pesto then garnish with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 253.02kcal
Fat: 18.23g
Saturated Fat: 4.14g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.07g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.29g
Carbohydrates: 4.65g
Fiber: 0.76g
Sugar: 0.10g
Protein: 16.99g
Cholesterol: 107.25mg
Sodium: 1051.74mg
Calcium: 263.19mg
Potassium: 96.83mg
Iron: 1.41mg
Vitamin A: 66.48µg

Essential Technique Tip for Perfect Pesto Shrimp

When preparing your shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed if using frozen ones. This will allow the pesto to adhere better, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, avoid overcooking the shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery. They are done as soon as they turn pink.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pesto Shrimp

Prep ahead: Prepare the pesto in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, when you're ready to cook, the pesto is ready to go.

Quick-cook shrimp: Opt for smaller shrimp as they cook faster, saving you time in the kitchen.

One-pan wonder: Use a large skillet to cook the shrimp, minimizing the number of dishes to clean up afterward.

Frozen pesto: If you're short on time, store-bought frozen pesto can be a convenient alternative to homemade pesto. Simply thaw and use as needed.

Efficient marinating: Instead of marinating the shrimp for 15 minutes, you can marinate them for a shorter time, such as 5 minutes, to save time without compromising flavor.

Pre-grated cheese: Use pre-grated parmesan cheese to save time on grating and cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Pesto Shrimp With Homemade Pesto Recipe

pesto - Substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto: Sun-dried tomato pesto will add a rich and tangy flavor to the dish, providing a delicious alternative to traditional pesto.
shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast strips: Chicken breast strips can be used as a substitute for shrimp, offering a different texture and flavor while still pairing well with the pesto sauce.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano cheese has a similar salty and nutty flavor to Parmesan, making it a suitable substitute in the pesto shrimp dish.

How to Beautifully Present Pesto Shrimp

Elevate the dish with a stunning presentation: Arrange the pesto shrimp on a pristine white plate, ensuring each shrimp is showcased elegantly. The vibrant green pesto should be delicately drizzled around the plate, creating an artistic and appetizing display.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a textural element by garnishing the dish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, adding a delightful crunch that complements the succulent shrimp and creamy pesto.
Highlight the freshness of the ingredients: Place a sprig of fresh basil on top of the shrimp, emphasizing the use of fresh herbs in the homemade pesto and enhancing the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Create a harmonious color palette: Pair the vibrant green pesto with a pop of color by adding a few halved cherry tomatoes to the plate, infusing the dish with a burst of freshness and a visually striking contrast.
Focus on precision and symmetry: Arrange the shrimp in a uniform pattern, ensuring each element of the dish is meticulously placed with attention to detail, reflecting the precision and artistry expected in a Michelin-starred presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by allowing the pristine white plate to serve as a backdrop, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to take center stage, creating a visually captivating and sophisticated presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Homemade Pesto Shrimp

Food processor: A food processor is essential for making the pesto sauce. It helps to finely chop and blend the ingredients into a smooth and creamy consistency.
Skillet: A skillet is used to cook the shrimp. It provides a large, flat cooking surface and allows for even heat distribution, ensuring the shrimp cooks evenly.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used to toss the cooked shrimp with the remaining pesto. It allows for easy mixing and coating of the shrimp with the pesto sauce.
Tongs: Tongs are useful for flipping the shrimp while cooking in the skillet. They provide a good grip and control when handling the shrimp.
Grater: A grater is used to grate the parmesan cheese. It helps to create fine, fluffy shreds of cheese that can be easily sprinkled over the pesto shrimp before serving.

How To Store and Freeze Pesto Shrimp

Let the pesto shrimp cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store leftover pesto shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the cooled pesto shrimp in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze the pesto shrimp for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen pesto shrimp in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed pesto shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
If the pesto appears dry after thawing, you can add a small amount of olive oil or water to help reconstitute the sauce.
For best results, consume the reheated pesto shrimp within 1-2 days of thawing.
Note: Homemade pesto can also be frozen separately in an ice cube tray for easy portioning and future use in various recipes.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can quickly become tough and rubbery. Toss the heated shrimp with the reserved pesto and serve immediately.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the pesto shrimp in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through. Stir the shrimp halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have leftover pesto, you can create a delicious pasta dish by reheating the shrimp and tossing them with cooked pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. Add a splash of olive oil or cream to the pasta to create a silky sauce that complements the pesto and shrimp.
For a tasty appetizer, reheat the pesto shrimp and serve them on top of toasted baguette slices or crostini. Sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
Transform your leftover pesto shrimp into a flavorful salad by reheating the shrimp and tossing them with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onions. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or use the remaining pesto as a dressing for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Random Fact about Pesto Shrimp

Pesto shrimp is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. It is a great source of protein and healthy fats, making it a popular choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Additionally, the homemade pesto used in this recipe adds a burst of fresh flavor, as it is made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil. This dish is not only tasty but also a great way to incorporate essential nutrients into your diet.

Is Making Pesto Shrimp at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this pesto shrimp with homemade pesto recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. Shrimp can be relatively expensive, but the homemade pesto can be made using simple and affordable ingredients. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a reasonable option for a special dinner or gathering.

Is Pesto Shrimp Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pesto shrimp recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

Pesto is typically high in calories and fat due to the olive oil, nuts, and cheese used in its preparation. While these ingredients offer some health benefits, consuming them in large quantities can lead to excess calorie intake.
Shrimp is a lean protein source, but it is also relatively high in cholesterol. However, dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol levels than previously thought.
The recipe calls for additional parmesan cheese as a garnish, which further increases the dish's calorie and fat content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use a lighter pesto recipe that incorporates more herbs and less oil, nuts, and cheese. You can also experiment with alternative ingredients like avocado or Greek yogurt to create a creamy texture with less fat.
Reduce the amount of pesto used in the recipe, or use it more sparingly as a garnish rather than a main component.
Opt for a low-fat parmesan cheese or use it in moderation to minimize the additional calorie and fat intake.
Serve the pesto shrimp with a side of vegetables or a salad to increase the dish's nutrient density and fiber content. This will help balance out the meal and provide additional health benefits.
Consider grilling or baking the shrimp instead of cooking them in a skillet to reduce the need for added oils or fats during the cooking process.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pesto Shrimp Recipe

This recipe for pesto shrimp with homemade pesto is a delightful combination of flavors. The use of fresh, homemade pesto adds a vibrant and aromatic element to the dish, elevating the natural sweetness of the shrimp. The cooking method ensures that the shrimp remains tender and succulent, while the addition of parmesan cheese provides a rich and savory finish. Overall, this dish is a wonderful showcase of simple yet exquisite ingredients, resulting in a delightful and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Pesto Shrimp With Homemade Pesto Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic and olive oil until perfectly crisp-tender and flavorful.

Mango Avocado Salad: A refreshing and colorful salad made with ripe mango, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime dressing.

Creamy Polenta: Smooth and creamy polenta made with butter and parmesan cheese, the perfect comforting side dish for the pesto shrimp.

Delicious Alternatives to Pesto Shrimp

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette before grilling to perfection.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slow cook the beef short ribs in a rich red wine sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone tender.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Create a creamy and tropical chia pudding by combining fresh mango and coconut milk for a healthy dessert option.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Pesto Shrimp Perfectly

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these delectable savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Whip up a batch of these crispy zucchini fritters for a delightful appetizer that's perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce or enjoying on its own.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake that oozes with rich, molten chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of warm and cold, and top it off with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Tiramisu: Create a classic tiramisu with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone filling, dusted with cocoa powder for a hint of bitterness. Serve it chilled for a refreshing and decadent dessert experience.

Why trust this Pesto Shrimp With Homemade Pesto Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try for all seafood lovers. The succulent shrimp is marinated in a flavorful homemade pesto sauce, ensuring a burst of fresh basil and garlic in every bite. The parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory element, elevating the dish to a whole new level. With the shrimp being the star of the show, the vibrant pesto perfectly complements its natural sweetness. Trust in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients, as this recipe promises to deliver a delightful and satisfying dining experience.

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FAQ:

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of shrimp for this recipe, but I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought pesto if you're short on time. However, I highly recommend making your own homemade pesto for the freshest and most vibrant flavors.

How long can I marinate the shrimp in the pesto?

You can marinate the shrimp in the pesto for up to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the shrimp without compromising the texture.

Can I substitute the parmesan cheese with another type of cheese?

While parmesan cheese complements the flavors of the pesto and shrimp beautifully, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses such as pecorino or asiago for a similar savory kick.

Can I make the pesto in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the pesto in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using it in the recipe.