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Pesto Pasta and Grilled Shrimp Stack

Irresistible Pesto Pasta and Grilled Shrimp Stack Delight

A delightful Pesto Pasta and Grilled Shrimp Stack that combines smoky grilled shrimp and herbal pesto pasta for an impressive dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 540 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill
  • large pot
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp Marinade

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled Choose large for better flavor and presentation.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice Fresh is best, vinegar can be used as an alternative.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Provides aromatic depth.
  • 1 tsp salt Essential for flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper For heat.
  • 1 tsp paprika Adds sweetness and color.

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fusilli) Forms the base of the dish.
  • 1 cup basil pesto Use store-bought or homemade.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Omit for dairy-free.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Optional, for added sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves Optional garnish.
  • 1 lemon wedges Optional, for serving.

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to soak in all those delicious flavors.
  • Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta of choice according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Remember to reserve ½ cup of cooking water before draining the pasta.
  • Mix with pesto: In the same pot, combine the drained pasta with basil pesto, a splash of olive oil, grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Stir well, adding the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency. If using, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes.
  • Grill the shrimp: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they appear pink and are lightly charred.
  • Assemble and serve: Twirl the pesto pasta into a mound on each plate, artfully topping it with the grilled shrimp. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and a squeeze of lemon. Serve warm.

Notes

Consider pairing this dish with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete dining experience. Optional: Add chili flakes for an extra kick.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg
Keyword gourmet, Grilled Shrimp, Italian, Pesto Pasta, quick meal, Seafood
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