Cilantro Pesto-Curry Shrimp With Garlic Beurre Blanc
A vibrant shrimp dish featuring fresh cilantro and parsley pesto paired with a rich garlic beurre blanc, perfect for seafood lovers seeking bold, herbaceous flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cilantro, Italian parsley, and pine nuts in a food processor.
- Gradually add olive oil while processing until a smooth pesto forms.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook shrimp in a skillet until pink and cooked through.
- Prepare garlic beurre blanc by simmering garlic in butter until fragrant.
- Serve the shrimp topped with cilantro pesto and drizzled with garlic beurre blanc.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh cilantro and parsley. If you can't find pine nuts, walnuts or sunflower seeds make great substitutes. Adjust the amount of olive oil based on your desired pesto consistency. To enhance the dish, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes for heat or a squeeze of lime for acidity. This recipe is versatile; try it with chicken or in a salad like Herbed Bean Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the garlic beurre blanc. For a refreshing side, consider a light salad like Chicken Pea Salad or a simple green salad with a squeeze of lemon. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or Mediterranean recipes featuring roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cilantro pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To prevent browning, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing. When reheating shrimp, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. The garlic beurre blanc can also be warmed gently in a saucepan.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cilantro Pesto-Curry Shrimp With Garlic Beurre Blanc contains roughly 524 calories, with 9g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (158% of the Daily Value), iron (65% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cilantro pesto ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cilantro pesto a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container, and remember to drizzle a little olive oil on top to keep it fresh and vibrant. When ready to use, give it a quick stir before serving.
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Tail-on shrimp can add a nice presentation, but feel free to use peeled shrimp for easier eating.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter in the garlic beurre blanc with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil. The flavors will still be delicious, and it will cater to vegan recipes without compromising on taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).