Creamy Pesto Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Zest

Creamy Pesto Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Zest is an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that brings together the rich creaminess of pesto sauce, the delicate sweetness of shrimp, and the bright freshness of lemon.

Each bite is a beautiful balance of flavors — creamy, garlicky, tangy, and herby — making it a perfect meal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The shrimp cook quickly and soak up the pesto-infused cream sauce, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing finish that cuts through the richness. It’s indulgent yet balanced, comforting yet sophisticated — everything you’d want from a pasta dish.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a wonderful mix of comfort and freshness. The combination of shrimp and creamy basil pesto creates a decadent flavor that feels restaurant-quality but is surprisingly easy to make at home. The lemon zest adds that perfect finishing touch, keeping the dish from feeling too heavy.

It’s one of those meals that makes you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Italian trattoria — aromatic, creamy, and beautifully balanced. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and easy — ready in about 25 minutes.
• Bursting with fresh, herby, and citrusy flavors.
• Perfect balance between creamy and zesty.
• Elegant enough for date night or dinner parties.
• Comforting and satisfying without being overly rich.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~490 kcal

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course / Dinner / Special Occasion Meal

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 300 g linguine or fettuccine pasta
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Shrimp:

• 300 g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ⅓ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

For Garnish:

• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta until al dente.
2. Sauté shrimp in olive oil and garlic.
3. Prepare creamy pesto sauce.
4. Toss pasta and shrimp into the sauce.
5. Finish with lemon zest and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes).
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Add 1 tsp lemon juice and toss. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

1. In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and chili flakes (if using).
4. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp into the sauce.
2. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon Zest

1. Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh lemon zest over the pasta.
2. Garnish with chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in shallow pasta bowls.
• Pair with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or a glass of chilled white wine.
• Garnish with an extra drizzle of olive oil and lemon zest before serving.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use fresh shrimp for best flavor — frozen works too, just thaw completely.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they become rubbery quickly.
• Adjust the creaminess by adding more or less cream.
• Homemade pesto gives superior flavor but high-quality store-bought versions work well too.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for extra freshness.

Variations

1. Low-Calorie Version: Use milk instead of cream for a lighter sauce.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra chili flakes.
3. Vegan Version: Use coconut cream and vegan pesto; replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms.
4. Add Veggies: Toss in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
5. Nutty Twist: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almonds on top for crunch.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the sauce (without pasta) for up to 1 month.
• To Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to restore texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander for draining
• Lemon zester or fine grater
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this without cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or milk with a bit of cornstarch for thickness.

Q3: Is homemade pesto necessary?
No, but it enhances freshness. Store-bought pesto is fine for quick meals.

Q4: Can I use other pasta types?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne all work beautifully.

Q5: How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Avoid overheating the cream. Simmer gently and stir constantly.

Conclusion

Creamy Pesto Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Zest is a perfect balance of luxury and simplicity. The creamy pesto sauce clings to every strand of pasta, the shrimp adds a touch of indulgence, and the lemon zest lifts everything with bright freshness. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for entertaining.