Spicy Shrimp and Pesto Pasta
A vibrant dish combining succulent shrimp, zesty pesto, and cherry tomatoes for a burst of Mediterranean flavor. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 35 minutes blends penne pasta, shrimp, peeled and deveined, store-bought basil pesto into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 14 oz penne pasta
- 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup store-bought basil pesto
- 12, halved cherry tomatoes
- 2, minced garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh basil
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 14 oz penne pasta and cook for 9-11 minutes until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add 12 oz shrimp, skin side down, and cook for 3-4 minutes until opaque and pink. Flip and cook for 2-3 minutes longer, then remove to a plate.
- Step 4: Add 12 halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in 1/2 cup basil pesto and 2 tbsp fresh basil, mixing until the tomatoes are coated.
- Step 5: Return the shrimp to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss for 2-3 minutes until well combined. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Step 6: Divide among plates and garnish with additional basil and red pepper flakes if desired.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Spicy Shrimp and Pesto Pasta take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Spicy Shrimp and Pesto Pasta?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Spicy Shrimp and Pesto Pasta?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Spicy Shrimp and Pesto Pasta for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Spicy Shrimp and Pesto Pasta?
Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Almost perfect — just needed a squeeze of lemon at the end.
- ★★★★☆
Enjoyable meal. Instructions could be a touch more detailed on the timing.
- ★★★★☆
My family liked it. I personally would prefer more depth of flavor.
