:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Simply-Recipes-5-Ingredient-Pesto-Shrimp-LEAD-4-0cd18272ff944dcab066fe3c11c27f13.jpg "5-Ingredient Pesto Shrimp with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe")
On the weeknights when I do not have the bandwidth for much cooking at all, I turn to recipes like this one. It takes less than 10 minutes to make (!!) and requires just a handful of ingredients.
Shrimp and pesto is such a good combination, and cherry tomatoes add pops of summer flavor and vibrant color. They’re actually the only ingredient requiring chopping in this recipe—everything else just goes straight into the skillet. A few fresh basil leaves on top are a great addition if you have some around, too.
Store-Bought Pesto = Easy Weeknight Cooking With Flair
There are so many store-bought options for pesto, you’re bound to have a favorite. Mine is the Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil variety from Trader Joe’s, found in the refrigerated section near all of the other sauces and dips. They also have a shelf-stable pesto, but it’s got far less fresh herbal flavor. As a general rule I find that refrigerated pestos are the best ones to buy from any store.
Lots of other store-bought sauces will work well in place of pesto, too. If you’re a fan of olives, substitute tapenade. For a tangy herby option with a little spice, use chimichurri. For a tomato-y twist, go with sun-dried tomato pesto or romesco sauce. Even a little jarred marinara and an extra splash of olive oil will give you a tasty result.
Simply Recipes / Coco Morante
A Simple Method With Great Results
I told you this was an easy recipe, and I was not kidding! It comes together in three steps.
- Season your shrimp
- Sauté them in olive oil.
- Turn off the heat and add the pesto, tomatoes, and optional fresh basil. In less than 10 minutes, you’re done.
Garlic Bread Makes the Meal
I like to toast up some very simple garlic bread while the shrimp are cooking, in order to make this a full meal. I simply slice a baguette, lay out all of the slices on my toaster oven baking sheet, and let them go until they have a little golden brown color. Once they’re toasted, I rub each slice with a raw garlic clove, then drizzle on some olive oil. You can add a little flaky salt or parmesan cheese if you like.
And that’s it! Dinner is ready. Time to enjoy a glass of white wine alongside this meal and feel the summery vibes.
Simply Recipes / Coco Morante