This dish combines the herbaceous punch of fresh pesto with the succulent tenderness of prawns, all tossed through warm, al dente pasta. It’s a meal that feels both light and luxurious, blending Italian comfort with coastal flair. Simple, flavorful, and satisfying — perfect for a nourishing lunch or elegant dinner.
Pesto Pasta with Prawns
Description
Pasta with Prawns and Homemade Pesto is a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish where tender pasta serves as the perfect base for sautéed shrimp and a generous coating of fresh pesto sauce. The shrimp are usually pan-seared or lightly sautéed in olive oil. They’re cooked until just pink and juicy, adding a mild seafood flavour that complements the richness of the sauce without overpowering it. The homemade pesto is a classic blend of fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil. It's aromatic, creamy, and slightly nutty, with a fresh green colour and a silky texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. Once combined, the dish is garnished with a touch more Parmesan and a few torn basil leaves. The end result is a well-balanced meal—herbaceous, savoury, slightly tangy, and full of texture from the tender pasta, succulent shrimp, and the creamy pesto. It’s perfect for a summer dinner, a romantic evening, or a casual yet elevated weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the pesto:
Instructions
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Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the instruction on the packaging.
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Meanwhile, in a blender cup, add all the ingredients for the pesto and blend until smooth.
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Preheat the pan with olive oil on medium heat. Cook the prawns for 2-3 minutes per side, season with salt and pepper to taste.
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When all ready, drain the water from the pasta, add pesto and prawns to the pan and gently mix.
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Divide the pasta between 2 bowls and top with fresh basil leaves and some parmesan and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 613.27kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30.58g48%
- Total Carbohydrate 39.96g14%
- Protein 43.95g88%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.