Basil and Butter Pasta (with Shrimp)

5m
Prep Time
20m
Cook Time
25m
Ready In

Recipe: #11227

November 18, 2013



"I am on a mission to lose some exess weight caused from meds and laziness. Found this on My Nutrion Insight.com By Jessica G., MHA This pasta recipe is a great concoction to put together to enjoy a filling dinner. This recipe uses shrimp and a basil and cheese pasta sauce and salt and pepper to taste. The red pepper flakes give it a spicy flavor (and boost metabolism) and the butter and cream sauce give it a rich and smooth taste. This recipe is best with a Cabernet Sauvignon, try Quail Oak Cabernet Sauvignon. Basil and Butter Pasta"

Original is 3 servings

Nutritional

  • Serving Size: 1 (508.8 g)
  • Calories 1148.3
  • Total Fat - 9.6 g
  • Saturated Fat - 2.8 g
  • Cholesterol - 7.9 mg
  • Sodium - 205.7 mg
  • Total Carbohydrate - 247.9 g
  • Dietary Fiber - 13.8 g
  • Sugars - 2.7 g
  • Protein - 19.3 g
  • Calcium - 211.7 mg
  • Iron - 4.8 mg
  • Vitamin C - 137.9 mg
  • Thiamin - 0.8 mg

Step by Step Method

Step 1

In a large pan, add butter, shrimp, and garlic. Cook till shrimp is cooked and set aside.

Step 2

Add half and half or cream.

Step 3

Bring sauce to boil and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4

Add shrimp, basil, cheese, and red pepper flakes.

Step 5

Pour sauce over pasta and toss well.

Step 6

Serve immediately.

Tips


No special items needed.

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.


  • For a healthier option, use Smart Balance butter instead of regular butter.
  • For a richer flavor, use regular half-and-half instead of fat-free half-and-half.

  • Substitute olive oil for Smart Balance (butter): This substitution is beneficial because olive oil is a healthier fat than butter, and it also adds a subtle flavor to the recipe.
  • Substitute vegetable broth for half and half: This substitution is beneficial because vegetable broth is lower in calories and fat than half and half, while still providing a flavorful base for the sauce.

Vegetarian Variation Replace the shrimp with 1 cup of diced mushrooms and 1/2 cup of diced bell peppers. Cook the mushrooms and peppers in the butter and garlic before adding the half and half or cream.



Garlic Roasted Broccoli - This roasted broccoli is the perfect side dish to complement the Basil and Butter Pasta. The garlic adds a subtle flavor, while the roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli. Roasting the broccoli also helps to lock in all the nutrients, making it a healthy and delicious addition to the meal.


Lemon Parmesan Asparagus: This bright and flavorful side dish pairs perfectly with the Garlic Roasted Broccoli. Asparagus is a great source of vitamins and minerals, and the addition of lemon and Parmesan cheese adds a delicious zing to the dish. The asparagus is roasted to bring out its natural sweetness, making it the perfect accompaniment to the Basil and Butter Pasta.




FAQ

Q: How much butter should I use?

A: You should use 1/4 cup of Smart Balance butter for this recipe.



Q: How long should I cook the dish?

A: Cook the dish until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened, about 20-30 minutes.

2 Reviews

ImPat

I did a half recipe for two of us and I thoroughly enjoyed but the DH not so much though because of his hate for parmesan cheese he had vintage cheddar and I had parmesan which we put over our finished dishes when we served. So it looks like I will definitely making this dish again for myself so I thank you connie1 for a keeper in my books, made for What's On the Menu tag game at FF&F.

5.0

review by:
(15 Dec 2023)

Rosie

I don't know about losing weight with this recipe, but I do know it is very tasty. I went easy on the red pepper flakes though!

5.0

review by:
(19 Apr 2021)

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Fun facts:

Fun Fact 1: Basil has been used for centuries, even by the Ancient Greeks and Romans. It was believed to have many medicinal properties and was even used as a symbol of love in some cultures.

Fun Fact 2: The Cabernet Sauvignon wine that pairs perfectly with this recipe is a favorite of many celebrities, including Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, and Jay-Z.