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Pesto Pasta and Grilled Shrimp Stack

Indulge in Pesto Pasta and Grilled Shrimp Stack Bliss

This Pesto Pasta and Grilled Shrimp Stack is a delightful meal that combines flavorful grilled shrimp with vibrant basil pesto pasta.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • large pot
  • Grill
  • tongs
  • Ring Mold

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp

  • 1 pound Large Shrimp Make sure they are fully thawed for even marination.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil can be a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Use fresh lemon juice for the best taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic brings aromatic depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly cracked for better flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Introduces a subtle smokiness.

For the Pasta

  • 12 ounces Pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fusilli) Choose your favorite.
  • 1 cup Basil Pesto Can be homemade or store-bought.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Omit or substitute for a non-dairy option if needed.

Optional Extras

  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Fresh halved tomatoes for added sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves For garnish.
  • 1 whole Lemon Wedges For serving.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a mixing bowl, toss the large shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
  • Return the drained pasta to the warm pot and mix in the basil pesto, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Add reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired consistency. Fold in cherry tomatoes if using.
  • Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
  • Using tongs or a ring mold, mound the pesto pasta on each plate and top with grilled shrimp. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and lemon.

Notes

For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. Store leftovers separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Gourmet Meal, Grilled Shrimp, Pasta Dish, Pesto Pasta, Quick Dinner, Seafood Recipe
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