Pasta With Shrimp and Cilantro-Lime Pesto

Jun 04, 2023June 4, 20230 0
Pasta with Shrimp and Cilantro-Lime Pesto - a spicy and zesty twist on traditional pasta dishes
in Main

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

35 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 1/4 cups packed fresh cilantro , plus 1/4 cup chopped
1/4 cup scant green onion , chopped
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 garlic cloves , pressed
1 tablespoon jalapeno , chopped and seeded
1/2 cup plus 1 tb olive oil
1 lb linguine
1 lb uncooked medium shrimp , peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons tequila
1/4 cup Cotija cheese ( or feta )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
4
Calories
650
Sugar
1g
Fat
34g
Pasta with Shrimp and Cilantro-Lime Pesto is a perfect weeknight dinner option that's loaded with fresh flavors. The dish is simple to make, but packed with an abundance of taste. Although the recipe doesn't require any cream, it has a thick and creamy texture that forms from the Cilantro-Lime Pesto's emulsification with olive oil and pasta water. The pasta and shrimp are the stars of the show, but the pesto makes this dish stand out. The subtle, zesty flavors of the cilantro and lime complement the shrimp's natural sweetness and add the right amount of tang to balance the heat from the jalapeno. This recipe is ideal for both pasta and seafood lovers, and it's easily customizable to meet taste preferences and dietary requirements.

Instructions

1.Begin by preparing the Cilantro-Lime Pesto. Combine the cilantro, green onion, lime juice, garlic, jalapeno, and olive oil in a food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
2.Cook the linguine in a large pot of boiling salted water. Cook according to package instructions or until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
3.While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, which usually takes around 2-3 minutes on each side.
4.Remove the skillet from heat and add the tequila. Place back on heat and cook for another minute, or until the alcohol has evaporated.
5.Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the shrimp. Add the Cilantro-Lime Pesto and the reserved pasta water to the pan and toss everything together until the pasta is coated evenly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6.To serve, divide the pasta into four plates and top each one with crumbled Cotija cheese or feta. Enjoy!

PROS

This dish is quick and easy to prepare, yet packed with flavor.
The fresh cilantro and lime juice give it a zesty taste, while the jalapeno adds a hint of spice.
Shrimp is a great source of protein, and the olive oil in the recipe makes it a healthier alternative to cream-based pasta sauces.

CONS

Shrimp can be expensive, so it may not be a budget-friendly dish for everyone.
Additionally, some people may not enjoy the taste of cilantro or the spicy kick of jalapeno.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is rich in protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and organs. Shrimp is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to improved brain health, reduced inflammation, and a lower risk of heart disease. The Cilantro-Lime Pesto provides antioxidants and vitamins from the fresh cilantro, lime juice, and garlic. Additionally, the olive oil in the recipe contains healthy fats that can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

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