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
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.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
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.
