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Pesto Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

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4.3 from 2 reviews

This vibrant and flavorful Pesto Shrimp recipe combines succulent shrimp marinated in lemon and garlic with fresh basil pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes. Ready in just 12 minutes, it’s a quick and elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The shrimp is sautéed to perfection, then tossed with pesto and fresh ingredients to create a light yet satisfying meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors.

  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Shrimp Marinade

  • 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced (juice divided)
  • Kosher salt (about 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (about 1/2 teaspoon)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for marinade)

Cooking Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes (approximately 1 10-ounce container), halved
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with minced garlic, lemon zest, half of the lemon juice, a pinch each of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (about 1/2 teaspoon each), and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss everything to coat the shrimp evenly and let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. After marinating, pour off any excess liquid from the bowl.
  2. Sauté the shrimp: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Cook the shrimp for 1 to 3 minutes per side, depending on their size, until they turn pink and are just opaque in the center.
  3. Stir in the pesto: Reduce the heat to low and add the basil pesto along with the remaining lemon juice to the skillet. Toss the shrimp gently to coat them evenly with the pesto sauce, allowing the flavors to meld without overcooking.
  4. Finish and serve: Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for just 1 to 2 minutes until they are warmed through but still firm, maintaining their fresh texture. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in a handful of torn fresh basil leaves if using. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp for best flavor, but frozen shrimp thawed completely can also be used.
  • Adjust the amount of pesto depending on your preference for sauce intensity.
  • Serve with crusty bread, over pasta, or alongside a light salad for a complete meal.
  • To make it gluten-free, ensure the pesto is gluten-free or make your own at home.
  • For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the shrimp.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/pesto-shrimp-with-cherry-tomatoes-recipe/