With a kiss of sea breeze and a wink of Mediterranean delight, let me introduce you to a dish that dances with flavor – the Walnut Pesto Pasta with Grilled Shrimp. A treasure trove of textures and tastes, this recipe intertwines the warming earthiness of walnuts with the zesty tang of fresh basil pesto, beautifully balanced by succulent grilled shrimp.
Ingredients List
To whip up this tantalizing treat, make sure you have the following on hand:
- 350 grams of whole grain pasta
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup of walnuts
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 500 grams of shrimps, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional for a dairy-free variant)
Instructions
Kick-start this culinary journey by boiling your pasta as per the pack’s instructions in a pot of salted water.
While the pasta’s simmering, create your heart-healthy pesto. Combine the basil, walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, and zest into a blender, pouring in the olive oil gradually.
Blend until smooth and then season this green delight with salt and pepper to taste.
It’s now time for your shrimps to sizzle. Place a grill pan over medium heat and grill your shrimps till they blush a beautiful pink, flipping them halfway through.
Once the pasta is al dente, drain it but hold on to about a cup of the pasta water.
Toss the pesto with the pasta, adding the pasta water gradually till you hit the ‘sauce’ sweet spot.
Finally, fold in the grilled shrimps and sprinkle the grated cheese (if using) on top.
Cooking Time & Servings
This marvelous Mediterranean medley takes around 30 minutes to prepare and cook, and will serve about 4 foodies generously.
Nutritional Information
This Walnut Pesto Pasta with Grilled Shrimp is not just a party for your palate; it’s a boon for your heart too! This sinfully savory dish is a powerhouse of protein from the shrimp and walnuts, has nourishing good fats from the olive oil, and is packed with antioxidants from the basil.
Tips and Tricks
You can easily swap the whole grain pasta with spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative or use gluten-free pasta. If you’re out of walnuts, almonds or pine nuts make a great substitute. Vegans can opt out of the cheese, maybe adding some nutritional yeast for the ‘cheesy’ kick.
To wrap it up
the deeply nutty, herby, and subtly citrus flavors of this dish serve as an ode to wholesome, rich, and hearty meals that nurture the body as much as they thrill the taste buds.
Waiting to see your rendition of this heart-healthy masterpiece in the kitchen? Don’t forget to share your culinary adventures with us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-made pesto for this dish?
Absolutely! Just ensure you choose one that’s heart-healthy and low in sodium.Can I substitute shrimp with other proteins?
Of course, grilled chicken or tofu would work beautifully with this recipe.Is this recipe appropriate for someone with a nut allergy?
If you have a nut allergy, skip the walnuts and replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.Is it essential to use whole grain pasta?
Whole grain pasta is a healthier option as it is higher in fiber and nutrients, but feel free to use what you prefer or have on hand.Can I store leftovers?
Yes, you can refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up-to 3 days. Just warm it up before serving.
Get ready to get lost in the labyrinth of delectable flavors that is the Walnut Pesto Pasta with Grilled Shrimp. Happy Cooking!
