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Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad

Fresh Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Spring Dish

A delightful Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad that captures warmth and freshness, perfect for spring gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces pasta (rotini or penne) Substitute with gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.
  • 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined) Fresh or frozen can be used; thaw properly.
  • 1 cup pesto sauce Choose homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) Feel free to swap for other seasonal veggies.
  • 1 cup bell peppers (diced) Any color works; cucumbers can be substituted.
  • ½ cup red onion (finely chopped) Use green onions for a milder taste.
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (chopped) Add more for garnish.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Substitutes include avocado oil or butter.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Vinegar is a nice alternative.
  • salt and pepper Essential for basic seasoning.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked shrimp, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup of diced bell peppers, ½ cup of finely chopped red onion, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil. Toss gently.
  4. Drizzle 1 cup of pesto sauce and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the salad mixture. Toss until well coated.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 170mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Can be served warm or chilled.

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