Pasta with Pesto, Cherry Tomatoes, and Grilled Shrimp

Ingredients

• Whole wheat pasta 1.5 cups cooked
• Grilled shrimp 5 oz
• Pesto sauce 2 tbsp
• Cherry tomatoes 1/2 cup
• Olive oil 1 tsp

Method

1. Cook the whole wheat pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
   Tip: Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.
2. Prepare the cherry tomatoes. While the pasta cooks, wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Cut them in half lengthwise and set aside.
   Tip: Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
3. Heat olive oil and warm tomatoes. In a medium skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté gently for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly but still hold their shape.
   Tip: Avoid overcooking the tomatoes to keep their fresh taste and vibrant color.
4. Add grilled shrimp. Add the grilled shrimp to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir gently and cook for 2 minutes until the shrimp are warmed through. Be careful not to overcook shrimp as they can become tough.
   Tip: If your shrimp are pre-cooked, just warm them; if raw, ensure they are fully cooked with no translucency.
5. Combine pasta with pesto and shrimp mixture. Place the cooked pasta in a large bowl. Add the pesto sauce and toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Then add the shrimp and tomato mixture and gently combine everything.
   Tip: If the pasta seems dry, add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
6. Serve immediately. Transfer the pasta with pesto, cherry tomatoes, and grilled shrimp to a plate or bowl. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
   Tip: Serve hot for the best taste and texture.

Pro tips

• To prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill, lightly oil them before grilling.
• Use freshly made pesto for a brighter flavor, or store-bought pesto works well for convenience.