Cilantro Pistachio Shrimp Pasta (Printable Version)

Bright pesto, tender shrimp, and spaghetti unite for a flavor-packed pasta meal. #shrimp #pasta #cilantropesto

# Ingredients:

→ Pesto

01 - 3/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
02 - 1/3 cup shelled roasted pistachios
03 - 1 jalapeño, seeds removed
04 - 2 cloves garlic
05 - 1/2 lime, juiced
06 - 3 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
07 - 2 to 3 tablespoons water, as needed
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Shrimp

10 - 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
11 - 1 pound raw shrimp, deveined and tails removed
12 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
13 - Freshly ground salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Pasta

14 - 10 ounces spaghetti, regular or gluten-free

→ Garnish

15 - 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
16 - Fresh cilantro leaves
17 - Chopped roasted pistachios

# Steps:

01 - In a food processor, combine cilantro, pistachios, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, avocado oil, water, salt, and black pepper. Process until a smooth pesto forms, adjusting water for consistency.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté until shrimp are opaque and just cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
03 - Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly.
04 - Toss the cooked spaghetti with cilantro pistachio pesto until evenly coated. Arrange sautéed shrimp on top, sprinkle with goat cheese, additional cilantro leaves, and chopped roasted pistachios before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of jalapeño. Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for alternative protein options.