Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious seafood pasta dish, this shrimp linguine recipe is a fantastic choice. With tender shrimp sautéed to perfection and tossed with flavorful pesto and al dente linguine, this dish is sure to impress. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
8 ounces linguine pasta
12 ounces medium shrimp (raw, peeled, and deveined with tails-on)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
¼ cup basil pesto
Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Follow this easy recipe to create a delightful shrimp linguine that combines the essence of Mediterranean flavors with the richness of shrimp. Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta al dente according to the package instructions, which is typically about 8 minutes. Before draining the pasta, reserve ½ cup of the cooking water. Drain the remaining water and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the raw shrimp with garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, ground black pepper, and paprika. Toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, finish by adding 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Pesto
Add the drained linguine to the same skillet used for the shrimp. Pour in the reserved ¼ cup of pasta water and toss to combine. Add ¼ cup of basil pesto and mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Mix in the Shrimp
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, mixing them in with the pasta. If desired, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the shrimp linguine immediately and enjoy your meal!
Notes
Cooking Pasta
Ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta for even cooking.
Shrimp Selection
Use medium shrimp that are raw, peeled, and deveined for the best results.
Pasta Water
The reserved pasta water helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency and allows it to cling better to the pasta.
Pesto
Feel free to use store-bought or homemade basil pesto, depending on your preference.
Garnishing
Fresh parsley adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor of the dish. You can also consider adding grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil before adding the linguine pasta. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly and does not become soggy. Cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8 minutes.
Seasoning Shrimp
Coat the raw shrimp with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, ground black pepper, and paprika. This step enhances the flavor of the shrimp, ensuring a well-seasoned dish.
Sautéing Shrimp
Heat extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This method locks in the moisture and flavor.
Combining Ingredients
After cooking the shrimp, use the same skillet to add the drained linguine and reserved pasta water. This helps to deglaze the pan and incorporate all the flavors from the shrimp into the pasta.
Using Pesto
Pour basil pesto over the linguine and mix thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Pesto adds a rich, herbal flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
Garnishing
Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor. Garnishing not only enhances presentation but also adds a fresh element to rich dishes.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
What can I substitute for basil pesto?
You can substitute basil pesto with other types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto, or even use a homemade version if you prefer.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus can be added to the skillet when cooking the shrimp or tossed in with the linguine for added nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp seasoning or to the finished pasta dish.
Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?
Yes, reserving pasta water is important as it helps to create a cohesive sauce. The starch in the water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta, improving the overall texture.
Conclusion
This linguine pasta with shrimp and basil pesto is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the savory flavors of seasoned shrimp with the creamy texture of pesto. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner, yet fancy enough for special occasions. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color.
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