FOOD, Holiday, Main Course, Pasta, Seafood, SIDE DISH

Pesto Shrimp with Peas

This pesto shrimp with peas dish, made with an allergy-friendly pesto (hello!), is a light dish packed with flavor!

Pesto Shrimp with Peas
Shrimp + Peas + Green Pesto Magic! (Served alongside Crispy Cauliflower Rice, recipe linked below.)

Today, we’re taking a dive into the world of culinary delight with a fantastic recipe featuring Pesto Shrimp and Peas. Brace yourselves for a mouthwatering combination that will have your taste buds cheering! But that’s not all – besides being ridiculously easy and delicious, this dish also packs a powerful nutritional punch. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, whip out our aprons, and get ready to indulge in this pesto-packed extravaganza!

If you’re a food allergy family and pesto is one of your families favorites, we’ve done some of the hard work (if pesto taste testing is hard work, lol) of perfecting a nut free and dairy free pesto the whole family can enjoy together.

The Fusion of Flavors

Pesto Shrimp and Peas is a mouthwatering blend of ingredients that harmonize beautifully to create a symphony of flavors. The succulent shrimp, cooked to perfection, pairs impeccably with the vibrant sweetness and slight crunch of peas. The true star of the dish, however, is the nut free and dairy free pesto sauce. Made from a fragrant combination of fresh basil leaves, garlic, sunflower seed, nutritional yeast, and olive oil, the pesto adds a burst of herbal, nutty, and savory notes to the dish. The combination of these elements creates a balance that is both elegant and satisfying, making pesto shrimp with peas a standout choice for any seafood lover.

Cultural Origins of Pesto Shrimp and Peas

While the exact origins of Pesto Shrimp and Peas are unclear, it draws inspiration from various culinary traditions around the world. Pesto, originating from the Liguria region in Italy, is a classic sauce renowned for its vibrant flavors and versatility. The addition of shrimp, a popular seafood delicacy, brings a delightful protein-rich element to the dish. Peas, on the other hand, are a staple in many cuisines, celebrated for their bright color and sweet taste. By blending these diverse elements, pesto shrimp with peas embraces a global culinary influence that transcends borders and creates a unique fusion of flavors.

Pesto Shrimp and Peas Nutritional Boosts

The incredible nutritional benefits that come along with this delectable recipe include many essential vitamins and a healthy dose of fiber. Also, the serving of lean protein will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

  • Shrimp: Not only is it a mouthwatering delicacy, but is also loaded with essential nutrients and being a lean protein source, shrimp aids in muscle growth and repair while keeping you feeling satisfied and energized.
  • Peas: tiny green gems bursting with nutritional goodness, these legumes are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, providing a wholesome boost for digestion and supporting overall gut health.
  • Pesto Sauce
    • Basil: This popular herd not only adds a burst of aromatic flavor to dishes, but it also boasts an impressive array of nutritional benefits, including antioxidants, vitamin K, vitamin A, and anti-inflammatory properties.
    • Sunflower Seeds: These little nutritional powerhouses are packed with healthy fats, fiber, protein, vitamin E, and minerals like magnesium and selenium, making them a fantastic addition to any diet. And, by substituting nuts with sunflower seeds, we maintain that delightful, creamy texture!
    • Garlic: A versatile culinary superhero that has immune-boosting properties, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and potential cardiovascular benefits.
    • Nutritional Yeast: This vegan pantry staple has a unique savory flavor the resembles cheese — this magical ingredient means you won’t miss the parmesan cheese of traditional pesto . It’s packed with B vitamins, protein, fiber, and essential minerals like zinc and selenium, making it a fantastic addition to a plant-based diet.
    • Olive Oil: The liquid gold of the Mediterranean, olive oil offers a range of nutritional benefits, including heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and potential protective effects against chronic diseases, making it a key ingredient for promoting overall well-being.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Our very favorite way to serve this dish is alongside some Crispy Cauliflower Rice (shown below)! The tenderness and of the shrimp and peas pairs perfectly with the crispy perfection of our cauliflower rice.

Crispy Cauliflower Rice
Crispy Cauliflower Rice

But, Pesto Shrimp with Peas is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in so many others ways as well! You can serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, allowing the flavors to mingle and coat the noodles with its rich sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it on a bed of fresh greens or as a filling for a vibrant salad. You can also enjoy it alongside roasted or grilled vegetables to create a wholesome and satisfying meal.

The combination of flavors in Pesto Shrimp and Peas makes it a great addition to brunch menus, appetizer platters, or even as a topping for homemade pizza. Let your imagination run wild and explore the endless possibilities this dish offers!

Are you drooling yet? 🤤

Pesto Shrimp and Peas is an exquisite blend of flavors that takes you on a captivating culinary journey. From the succulent shrimp to the vibrant sweetness of peas and the aromatic allure of pesto, this dish offers a sensory experience like no other. With its cultural influences, health benefits, and versatility, pesto shrimp with peas is a testament to the power of fusion cuisine. So, grab your apron, head to the kitchen, and embark on a delicious adventure with Pesto Shrimp with Peas!

Equipment Needed

Food Processor
Food Processor
Large Skillet
Large Skillet

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Pesto Shrimp with Peas

This pesto shrimp with peas dish, made with an allergy-friendly pesto (hello!), is a light dish packed with flavor!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: allergy friendly, dairy free, gluten free, grain free, low carb, nut free, peanut free, peas, pesto, sesame free, shrimp, soy free, whole30
Servings: 4
Calories: 356kcal
Author: Rebecca

Ingredients

Dairy- and Nut-Free Pesto

  • 2 cups packed fresh basil
  • ¼ cup unsalted sunflower seeds optional
  • 2 cloves garlic chopped
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 Tbsp nutritional yeast
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 4-8 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Shrimp

  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 lb shrimp uncooked, peeled, and tails removed
  • ¾ cup frozen peas
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Add all pesto ingredients, except olive oil, to a food processor. Blend ingredients while slowly adding olive oil until you achieve the consistency you like.
  • For the shrimp, heat olive oil in skillet and add shrimp, peas, salt, and pepper.
  • Saute 5-8 minutes or until shrimp is no longer translucent and shrimp and peas are cooked through.
  • Stir in pesto and cook until things are completely heated through.
  • Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For your convenience, Pine & Oak will occasionally provide estimated caloric or nutritional information. These are estimates only and users are responsible for calculating the caloric or nutritional information with the actual ingredients and brands they will use. Users are also responsible for checking and ensuring all ingredients and brands used are safe for their particular allergies.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.
© Pine & Oak – livepineoak.com

Hi, i'm rebecca,

nice to meet you!

I'm a former marketing director for a Fortune 100 company turned homeschool ringleader and food allergy warrior living in Texas. My favorite things include chocolate, photography, and travel!

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HI, I'M REBECCA,

nice to meet you!

I'm a former marketing director for a Fortune 100 company turned homeschool ringleader and food allergy warrior living in Texas. My favorite things include chocolate, photography, and travel!

The Full Story »