Lighter Creamy Pesto Shrimp

An adaptation of Creamy Pesto Shrimp to make it a little lighter and boost the basil flavor.

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1  lb linguine
• 2  cups half-and-half
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2  tablespoons dried basil or 1⁄3 cup  chopped fresh basil
• 3⁄4 cup  grated parmesan cheese
• 3⁄4 cup pesto sauce
• 1  lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine. Boil 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve a half-cup or so or of pasta water when draining.
2. Pour half-and-half into a skillet over medium-high heat; add pepper and basil, and simmer 8-10 minutes, stirring often, until thickened.
3. Blend in cheese and pesto sauce and simmer 3-5 minutes; adjust salt if necessary.
4. Add shrimp to sauce and simmer until they just turn pink, about 5 minutes.
5. Add linguine to sauce and toss. Add reserved pasta water if needed to correct the consistency of the sauce. Serve hot with crusty bread alongside.