Description
30 Minute Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that combines succulent shrimp, fresh vegetables, and creamy pesto, all ready in just half an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this pasta salad not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your guests with its colorful presentation and delightful taste. Enjoy this quick and easy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz fusilli or rotini pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- During the last minute of cooking the shrimp, add cherry tomatoes and diced cucumber to warm them slightly.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sautéed shrimp and vegetables in the pot. Mix in pesto sauce until evenly coated; add reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
- Finish by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Add bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition. This salad can be made ahead of time for enhanced flavors.