Pasta with Pistachio Pesto and Shrimp
A perfect combination of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors, this Pasta with Pistachio Pesto and Shrimp is a delightful dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The richness of the pesto made from freshly ground pistachios, basil, and a hint of lemon zest is complemented by succulent shrimp and crispy pancetta, making each bite a true treat. Ideal for a cozy weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this dish brings a luxurious touch to any occasion.
Category: Main Courses
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fusilli pasta | 320g |
| Shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 12 |
| Sweet pancetta | 120g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste |
| Fine sea salt | To taste |
| Pistachios (shelled) | 200g |
| Grana Padano DOP cheese | 35g |
| Lemon zest | ½ |
| Fresh basil leaves | 50g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Extra virgin olive oil (for pesto) | 100g |
| Water | 100g |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
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Boil the pasta: Start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add a generous pinch of fine sea salt and drop in the fusilli pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve a cup of pasta cooking water and set it aside.
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Prepare the pistachio pesto: While the pasta is cooking, begin working on the pistachio pesto. Peel and halve the garlic clove, removing its germ. In a food processor or blender, combine the peeled garlic, basil leaves, pistachios, lemon zest, Grana Padano cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with a bit more water if necessary. Set aside.
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Cook the pancetta: In a large, deep skillet or frying pan, heat a small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sweet pancetta and sauté for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pancetta turns golden and crispy. Remove the pancetta from the pan and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan for the shrimp.
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Prepare the shrimp: In the same pan used for the pancetta, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are pink, opaque, and slightly golden on the edges. Season with salt and pepper. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
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Combine pasta and pesto: By now, the pasta should be done. Using tongs, transfer the cooked fusilli directly into the skillet with the pancetta and shrimp. Add a small ladle of the reserved pasta cooking water to help deglaze the pan and create a bit of sauce.
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Mix everything together: Pour the pistachio pesto over the pasta and toss everything gently to combine. Continue tossing for a couple of minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors of the pesto. If the mixture appears dry, add another ladle of pasta cooking water to achieve a creamy consistency.
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Finish and serve: Before serving, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top for an added layer of richness. Garnish with additional grated Grana Padano cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This Pasta with Pistachio Pesto and Shrimp offers a balanced combination of flavors that will impress anyone at the dinner table. The creamy pesto pairs perfectly with the savory pancetta and tender shrimp, making this dish an unforgettable meal. Perfect for pasta lovers and those seeking something a little different yet equally satisfying, this recipe will become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Cooking Tips:
- Pistachio Substitute: If you prefer, you can substitute the pistachios with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor twist.
- Shrimp Variations: Feel free to use other seafood such as scallops or lobster if you prefer, or keep it vegetarian by omitting the shrimp altogether.
- Pasta Shape: While fusilli is a great choice for this pesto, any other pasta shape that holds the sauce well, such as penne or farfalle, would work just as beautifully.
Enjoy your meal with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to complement the rich flavors of the pesto and shrimp.
This dish is a fantastic balance of fresh ingredients, creamy textures, and bold flavors, perfect for impressing your family or guests with minimal effort!
