Pesto Penne with Shrimp and Peas

Published: Mar 24, 2016

4.3

Ethan Calabrese

Pesto nuts will love this fresh spring combo of spinach, basil, and sweet peas.

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Ingredients

1. Step 1In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water, and return to pot.
2. Step 2Meanwhile, make pesto: In a small food processor fitted with a metal blade, pulse spinach, basil, and 1/3 olive oil until combined. Add Parmesan, pine nuts or almonds, and garlic and season with salt and pepper.
3. Step 3In a large skillet over medium heat, heat remaining tablespoon olive oil. Add shrimp and cook until pink, 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Step 4Add pasta, pesto, and peas to skillet and toss until completely combined. Stir in 1/4 cup pasta water and stir until creamy.
5. Step 5Sprinkle with Parmesan and chili flakes (if using).