PESTO SHRIMP MUSHROOM PASTA
This Pesto Shrimp Mushroom Pasta is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish. Tender shrimp and savory mushrooms are tossed with your favorite pasta and a vibrant pesto sauce. It's a perfect weeknight meal that's ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (linguine, spaghetti, penne, or your favorite)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: fresh basil leaves, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
- Cook shrimp and mushrooms: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened and browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Add shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Do not overcook.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the pesto and heavy cream (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and mushroom sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
Notes
- Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely before cooking.
- Mushrooms: You can use any type of mushroom you like, such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms.
- Pesto: You can use store-bought pesto or make your own.
- Pasta: You can use any type of pasta you like.
- Cream: The heavy cream is optional, but it adds a richness to the sauce.
- Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.