Name: Shrimp Pesto Fettuccine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved); Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Shrimp Pesto Fettuccine is a flavorful and elegant pasta dish that brings together tender fettuccine noodles, succulent shrimp, and a vibrant basil pesto sauce. With its rich taste and impressive presentation, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is quick to prepare and offers a satisfying blend of fresh and savory flavors. The basil pesto coats the pasta beautifully, while the shrimp add protein and a touch of sophistication. It’s a one-pan meal that feels restaurant-worthy yet is simple enough for a home-cooked dinner in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fettuccine pasta
Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Olive oil
Garlic cloves (minced)
Salt and pepper
Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Add shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
Reduce heat to low. Add cooked fettuccine and pesto to the skillet with a splash of pasta water. Toss to coat.
Return shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if using.
Serve warm with additional Parmesan on top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use linguine, spaghetti, or penne instead of fettuccine.
Swap shrimp for grilled chicken or scallops.
Add cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile.
Substitute store-bought pesto with homemade for a fresher taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth. Avoid microwaving the shrimp too long, as it can become rubbery. Freezing is not recommended due to the pasta and seafood content.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Fettuccine works well because it holds the sauce, but other shapes like linguine or spaghetti also work.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but red pepper flakes can be added for heat.

Can I use homemade pesto?

Absolutely. Homemade pesto gives a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

What can I serve with this?

Pair with a green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.

How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?

Cook only until they turn pink and curl—typically 2–3 minutes per side.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free pesto and omit Parmesan to make it dairy-free.

Is this meal gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish fully gluten-free.

Can I add cream to the sauce?

Yes, stir in a splash of heavy cream for a creamy pesto variation.

Can I make it ahead?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the components (cook pasta, clean shrimp, prepare pesto) in advance.

Conclusion

Shrimp Pesto Fettuccine is a fresh, flavorful, and fast dish that delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The harmony of garlic-sautéed shrimp, rich pesto, and tender pasta makes it a versatile meal for any night of the week. Simple yet elegant, it’s a timeless favorite for lovers of seafood and Italian cuisine.

Shrimp Pesto Fettuccine

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Shrimp Pesto Fettuccine is a quick and flavorful pasta dish combining tender shrimp, creamy pesto sauce, and fettuccine noodles for a fresh and satisfying meal.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Add shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
Return cooked pasta to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Stir in pesto sauce and reserved pasta water to coat.
Add cooked shrimp and toss gently to combine.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with basil if desired.
Serve warm.