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A close-up of pesto shrimp spaghetti with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.

Classic Pesto Shrimp Spaghetti

A delightful and easy-to-make pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a vibrant homemade pesto. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal with a touch of elegance.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz (340 g) Spaghetti
  • 1 lb (450 g) Large shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
  • ¼ cup Pine nuts
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 3 Garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp Lemon zest
  • ¼ tsp Red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ½–1 cup Reserved pasta water
  • Optional garnish toasted pine nuts, fresh basil leaves, grated cheese

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat, then add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente.

Notes

Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy water is perfect for thinning the pesto sauce later if needed. Serving suggestion: Pair with a crisp white wine and a simple green salad.