Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine is a delicious choice for a quick yet impressive meal. This dish combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce, fresh shrimp, and fragrant basil pesto over tender linguine. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with friends and family. Plus, using whole wheat pasta adds some extra nutrition without sacrificing taste!

How to Make Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine

Ingredients:

8 oz whole wheat linguine
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

Cook the linguine in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and slightly charred. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the basil pesto. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the creamy sauce.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
Plate the pasta and top with the sautéed shrimp. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine

Serve this dish warm, straight from the pan. You can garnish it with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an added touch. This meal pairs nicely with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 2–3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet with a splash of cream or water to bring back the creamy texture.

Tips to Make Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine

Make sure to not overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long in the pan.
Feel free to use store-bought pesto, or you can make your own for an extra kick of flavor.
Add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, for added color and nutrition.

Variation

For a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or use unsweetened almond milk. You can also replace the shrimp with chicken or veggies for a different protein option.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta type you like! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta would work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance. Cook the pasta just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What can I use if I don’t have basil pesto?
You can use sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, or even make a simple sauce using olive oil, garlic, and spinach if you need a substitute.