Pesto Shrimp Pasta with Asparagus
Instructions:
- Make the pesto sauce:
- In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the shrimp and asparagus:
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until tender but still crisp. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Combine the pasta and pesto:
- In the same skillet, add the cooked pasta, asparagus, and shrimp. Pour in the pesto sauce and toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve the pesto shrimp pasta with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
Conclusion:
Pesto Shrimp Pasta with Asparagus is a light yet satisfying dish that brings together the best of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The pesto sauce provides a rich, aromatic base for the shrimp and asparagus, while the pasta serves as the perfect backdrop to tie it all together. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually stunning meal, making it a great choice for both casual meals and special occasions.
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