Pesto Fillet Periwinkle Pasta with Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Indulge in a culinary masterpiece with our Pesto Fillet Periwinkle Pasta with Garlic Shrimp. This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors, featuring seafood fillets coated in vibrant pesto sauce, complemented by tender periwinkles, and enriched with succulent garlic shrimp. Perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Pesto Sauce:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a twist)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces fettuccine or linguine
• 1 pound seafood fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or salmon)
• 1 cup cooked periwinkles, cleaned
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Sauce

1. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves.
2. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
3. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the processor is running until you achieve a smooth consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 3: Cook the Seafood Fillets

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Season the seafood fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet.
3. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fillets are cooked through and flaky. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Shrimp

1. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and cooked periwinkles, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

1. In the pot with the drained pasta, add the pesto sauce and toss until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
2. Gently fold in the seafood fillets and garlic shrimp mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pesto Fillet Periwinkle Pasta warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For a refreshing accompaniment, consider a side salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the flavors of the seafood.

Cooking Tips

• When selecting seafood fillets, opt for fresh, high-quality fish from your local market to ensure the best flavor and texture.
• If you can’t find periwinkles, consider substituting with clams or mussels for a similar briny flavor.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and seafood fillets, and instead add grilled vegetables or chickpeas.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nut-Free Pesto: Replace the nuts with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies.
• Vegan Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese and substitute the seafood with tofu or tempeh.

With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this Pesto Fillet Periwinkle Pasta with Garlic Shrimp is not only a feast for the palate but also a treat for the eyes. Experiment with the ingredients and make it your own!

For more delightful seafood recipes, consider checking out Seafood Nutrition for tips and inspiration. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations with friends and family, and let the flavors of this dish transport you to a Mediterranean paradise. Happy cooking!