Homemade Chicken Parmesan: A Beginner’s Guide

When it comes to home cooking, you can’t go wrong with a good ol’ chicken parmesan!

Homemade chicken parmesan on a sheet panWhen it comes to home cooking, you can’t go wrong with a good ol’ chicken parmesan!

Easy Pesto Shrimp

This pesto shrimp is a dinnertime win! Savory basil pesto is a natural pairing with juicy shrimp; serve with pasta…

This pesto shrimp is a dinnertime win! Savory basil pesto is a natural pairing with juicy shrimp; serve with pasta or rice for an easy dinner idea.

Pesto shrimp

Here’s an idea that has easy weeknight meal written all over it: pesto shrimp! Turns out this bright green, garlicky sauce is the perfect pairing for succulent shellfish. The two flavors go hand-in-hand.

Alex and I were inspired to make this recipe because of the bushy basil plant in our backyard. There’s no better use for a big patch of pesto than a pile of juicy shrimp!

How to make pesto shrimp—in 5 minutes

This is one of those 5-minute easy dinner ideas that saves us on busy weeknights. Every now and then, we like to eat healthy seafood like shrimp or salmon. What we love about shrimp is that it cooks so quickly! All you need is just a few minutes in a skillet and you’ve got dinner. Here are the basic steps to how to make pesto shrimp:

  • Pat the shrimp dry. This is key before you start cooking: so there’s not too much extra liquid.
  • Sauté the shrimp 1 to 2 minutes per side. Heat the olive oil, then pop in the shrimp and cook just 1 to 2 minutes per side.
  • Add pesto for 30 seconds! This gets it beautifully bright green and coats the shrimp in a beautiful sauce. Do not cook any longer than that, or the pesto will darken and turn brown.
How to make pesto shrimp

Use best quality pesto

The main thing to know about his shrimp pesto recipe:= is to use the best quality pesto! The best, of course, is homemade. But this requires fresh basil, which is not always available. If you can’t make homemade pesto, use the best quality brand you can find. The quality varies a lot between brands, so you may need some trial and error before you find your favorite pesto.

  • Homemade pesto has the best flavor and color. Make a batch of fresh basil pesto if you can. Other options cashew pesto, walnut pesto or vegan pesto as a dairy-free option.
  • Or try refrigerated fresh pesto, found in the produce section. In our taste tests, we’ve found this type of pesto tends has better flavor than pesto in jars. It’s often sold in tubes.
Pesto shrimp in skillet

Think ahead: thawing frozen shrimp

You can use either fresh or frozen shrimp for this pesto shrimp recipe. Turns out, frozen shrimp can be just as fresh as shrimp from the fish counter at the grocery store! If you can, try to find wild caught shrimp: it’s usually a sustainable option. If you do use frozen, you’ll need to make sure to think ahead to thaw the shrimp before making the recipe. Here’s what to do:

  • Day before: If you think ahead, simply place the frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Day of: Place the shrimp in a large bowl of very cold water for 15 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes to break up clumps that freeze together. The shrimp should defrost in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Pesto shrimp

What to serve with pesto shrimp

Of course, this pesto shrimp isn’t a full meal in 5 minutes. But it gets you much closer to dinner! Here’s what we’d suggest serving with it to round it out into a meal:

Dietary notes

This pesto shrimp recipe is dairy-free, gluten-free, and pescatarian.

Print

Easy Pesto Shrimp

Pesto shrimp
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

Pesto shrimp is a dinnertime win! Savory basil pesto is a natural pairing with juicy shrimp; serve with pasta or rice for an easy dinner idea.

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 0 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp, deveined (peeled or unpeeled)
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup basil pesto (homemade or purchased)
  • Lemon, optional

Instructions

  1. If necessary, thaw the shrimp.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil on medium high heat. Add the shrimp and salt. Cook the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side until almost opaque, turning them with tongs.
  4. Just before shrimp are fully cooked, add the ¼ cup pesto and continue cooking for 30 seconds, stirring continuously.
  5. Serve immediately. If using storebought pesto, adjust lemon and or salt accordingly.

Did you love this recipe?

Get our free newsletter with all of our best recipes!

More easy shrimp recipes

There are lots more easy shrimp recipes that make for a fast dinner! Here are some of our favorites to try:

Easy Chicken Pot Pie

This easy chicken pot pie recipe is an ultimate comfort food recipe that’s easy to make, hearty, and delicious. 

This easy chicken pot pie recipe is an ultimate comfort food recipe that’s easy to make, hearty, and delicious. 

Orange Chicken Recipe

This tasty orange chicken recipe features yummy crispy chicken smothered in a sweet and spicy orange sauce.

This tasty orange chicken recipe features yummy crispy chicken smothered in a sweet and spicy orange sauce.

Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos

If you’re on the lookout for a delicious weeknight meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying, these Sheet Pan…

The post Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos appeared first on The Defined Dish.

If you’re on the lookout for a delicious weeknight meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying, these Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos are sure to hit the spot!

A close up of a finished white plate of Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos, garnished with cilantro.

These Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos are packed with vibrant colors and flavors. Plus, most of the action is happening on a sheet pan so you have very limited dishes. That’s a major win!

A finished bowl of Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos, garnished with cilantro, lime wedges, and chips.

These tacos are not only dairy-free and gluten-free, but also fit perfectly into a paleo lifestyle, making them a great choice for anyone sitting at your table. You’ll love the perfectly seasoned shrimp, the tender veggies, and the option to top your tacos however you choose!

Ingredients:

  • Mini Bell Peppers 
  • Red Onion
  • Serrano Pepper
  • Avocado Oil 
  • Kosher Salt
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper 
  • Peeled, Deveined, and Tail-Off Shrimp
  • Chili Powder
  • Garlic Powder
  • Smoked Paprika
  • Ground Cumin
  • Fresh Oregano Leaves
  • Limes
  • Flour Tortillas
  • Avocados 
  • Fresh Cilantro
  • Salsa
All of the ingredients needed to make Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos in small dishes, bowls, and cutting boards.

Step-by-step:

step one: prep the sheet pan

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

step two: prep the veggies

Place the sliced bell peppers, onion, and serrano on the prepared sheet pan. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the avocado oil, ½ teaspoon Kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper and toss until well combined.

step three: par-cook the veggies

Spread into an even layer and par-cook until softened, about 10 minutes.

step four: season the shrimp

Meanwhile, pat the shrimp very dry and place in a bowl. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons avocado oil 1 ½ teaspoons Kosher salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, the chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, fresh oregano, and lime zest and toss until well combined and the shrimp is evenly coated. Set aside until the veggies have par-cooked.

The shrimp for Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos in a white bowl being seasoned.

step five: add shrimp to the pan and roast

Remove the veggies from the oven and add the shrimp to the pan. Toss until just combined and spread into an even layer. Place back into the oven and continue to roast until the shrimp is cooked through, about 10 minutes.

The seasoned shrimp and veggies on a sheet pan ready to go into the oven.

step six: heat the tortillas

One at a time, place the tortillas in a dry (no oil) stainless steel skillet over medium heat and cook for about 30 seconds on each side. You can also do away with the skillet, and char the tortillas directly over a gas flame for a few seconds using tongs.

step seven: assemble the tacos and serve!

To serve, spread the mashed avocado on the bottom of a tortilla and top with the shrimp fajitas. Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro, a drizzle of salsa, and a lime wedge for squeezing.

Recipe FAQs:

Can I serve these without tortillas?

Sure! This shrimp would taste amazing over a bowl or rice, as a tostada, or even on top of a salad. Feel free to get creative!

is this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?

Both! Plus, this recipe can be fully paleo depending on the tortillas you choose to use.

are these tacos spicy?

I wouldn’t say these fajita tacos are spicy! They have plenty of flavor, but the spice level is pretty mild. If you want to kick it up a notch, you can choose to serve with a spicier salsa! You can also avoid using the serrano pepper if you want to skip the heat.

I hope you love these quick and simple Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos! Let me know what you think after you try them.

Looking for more shrimp recipes? Check these out!

Tangy Thai Shrimp and Noodle Salad

Bang Bang Shrimp Skewers with Sesame Slaw

Grilled Shrimp Salad with Chili Lime Dressing

A finished bowl of Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos, garnished with cilantro, lime wedges, and chips.
Print

Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos

Gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo
Servings 4 servings
Calories 606kcal

Ingredients

For the Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas:

  • 1- pound mini bell peppers stem removed and thinly sliced into rounds
  • 1 cup halved and thinly sliced red onion ½ large onion
  • 1 serrano pepper stem removed and thinly sliced into rounds (optional)
  • 4 tablespoons avocado oil divided
  • 2 teaspoons Kosher salt divided
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper divided
  • 1 ½ pounds peeled deveined and tail-off shrimp (36/40)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh oregano leaves
  • Zest of ½ lime

For Serving:

  • 10 flour tortillas
  • 2 avocados mashed
  • ¼ cup freshly chopped cilantro leaves
  • Salsa for topping
  • 1 lime cut into wedges

Instructions

Make the Shrimp Fajitas:

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
  • Place the sliced bell peppers, onion, and serrano on the prepared sheet pan. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the avocado oil, ½ teaspoon Kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper and toss until well-combined. Spread into an even layer and par cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, pat the shrimp very dry and place in a bowl. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons avocado oil 1 ½ teaspoon Kosher salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, the chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, fresh oregano, and lime zest and toss until well combined and the shrimp is evenly coated. Set aside until the veggies have par cooked.
  • Remove the veggies from the oven and add the shrimp to the pan. Toss until just combined and spread into an even layer. Place back into the oven and continue to roast until the shrimp is cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Assemble the tacos:

  • One at a time, place the tortillas in a dry (no oil) stainless steel skillet over medium heat and cook for about 30 seconds on each side. You can also do away with the skillet and char the tortillas directly over a gas flame for a few seconds using tongs.
  • To serve, spread the mashed avocado on the bottom of a tortilla and top with the shrimp fajitas. Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro and a drizzle of salsa, and a lime wedge for squeezing.

Nutrition

Calories: 606kcal | Carbohydrates: 67g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 21g | Sodium: 1990mg | Potassium: 1292mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 4557IU | Vitamin C: 180mg | Calcium: 228mg | Iron: 7mg

The post Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajita Tacos appeared first on The Defined Dish.

Bone In Ribeye

Bone in ribeye is the ultimate steak for those who crave rich flavor and a perfect sear. With its rib bone adding depth and juiciness, this cut offers a robust flavor that’s hard to match. Our recipe is designed to highlight the steak’s ric…

Bone in ribeye is the ultimate steak for those who crave rich flavor and a perfect sear. With its rib bone adding depth and juiciness, this cut offers a robust flavor that’s hard to match. Our recipe is designed to highlight the steak’s rich marbling and buttery taste, bringing out its best with simple seasoning…

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Rotisserie chicken, orzo, and veggies are paired with a bright, lemony broth in this lemon chicken orzo soup. This easy…

The post Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup appeared first on My Baking Addiction.

Rotisserie chicken, orzo, and veggies are paired with a bright, lemony broth in this lemon chicken orzo soup. This easy soup will add a bit of brightness to a cold, dreary day.

Two bowls filled with lemon chicken orzo soup next to spoons on a countertop.

It’s soup season!

Every year I get excited for colder weather because it means I can bust out my soup pot and make one of my very favorite foods: soup!

Whether it’s a cheesy loaded baked potato soup, a hearty beef and barley stew, or my low carb zuppa toscana, I love them ALL. 

This lemon chicken orzo soup is one that adds a little bit of sunshine into a gloomy fall or winter day. It’s loaded with chicken, veggies, and plenty of lemon and dill for tons and tons of flavor. 

As an added bonus, it comes together pretty quickly, so it’s a great recipe to make on a weeknight when you’re low on time and energy.

(more…)

The post Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup appeared first on My Baking Addiction.

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas served with white rice in a white bowl.Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas and Spinach is an easy one-pot meal you can make for weeknight dinners and meal prep! It’s comforting, flexible, and loaded with flavor. Craving more easy curry recipes? You’ll have to try my Thai Red Curry, Easy Vegan Curry, and Vegan Thai Green Curry recipes as well! When you’re searching…

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas served with white rice in a white bowl.

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas and Spinach is an easy one-pot meal you can make for weeknight dinners and meal prep! It’s comforting, flexible, and loaded with flavor.

Craving more easy curry recipes? You’ll have to try my Thai Red Curry, Easy Vegan Curry, and Vegan Thai Green Curry recipes as well!

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas served with white rice in a white bowl.

When you’re searching for winter comfort foods, you’ll typically stumble on hearty stews and creamy soups, but I’m a bigger fan of curry recipes. They’re the ultimate cozy meal, with warm spices, creamy sauces, and loads of seasonal veggies in every bite. It’s everything you need in a winter meal!

That’s why you’ll find this Easy Sweet Potato Curry Recipe on my dinner menu almost weekly when it’s cold outside. I can’t get enough of the hearty sweet potatoes and protein-packed chickpeas swimming in the aromatic and creamy red curry sauce! It also doesn’t hurt that it quickly comes together in one pan.

Just like my Butternut Squash Curry, you can quickly throw this red curry recipe together for a comforting family dinner or during your Sunday meal prep. It stays fresh and flavorful for days and even freezes well!

Why you need to try this sweet potato curry recipe

  • A seasonal Thai-inspired curry recipe – Sweet potatoes give this Thai-inspired curry a fall and winter twist, while the spicy-ish curry sauce warms you up.
  • Quick, easy, and made in one pan! This has to be one of the easiest fall dinner recipes. All you have to do is toss everything in a skillet, simmer until the potatoes are tender, then serve!
  • Make it your own – Add more vegetables, swap the sweet potatoes for pumpkin, or tone down the heat. The ways to make this recipe your own are endless!
using a wooden spoon to scoop sweet potato curry in a black skillet.

Ingredients needed (with substitutions)

  • Vegetable oil
  • Garlic and ginger
  • Red curry paste – My favorite red curry paste is by Thai Kitchen because it’s vegan, full of flavor, and easy to find in most well-stocked grocery stores.
  • Ground turmeric
  • Sweet potatoes – The star of the curry! Use regular sweet potatoes, yams, or swap them for peeled and diced pumpkin or butternut squash to make a recipe that’s similar to my Butternut Squash Curry.
  • Coconut milk – Use canned full-fat coconut milk to make the curry super creamy. You can substitute plain yogurt or cashew cream, or even some sort of vegan cream like Ripple brand half and half.
  • Water – Or vegetable broth.
  • Chickpeas – I like to use canned chickpeas for convenience, but freshly cooked chickpeas are delicious here, too. Or, instead of using chickpeas, make the curry with pre-cooked or canned green or brown lentils.
  • Salt and pepper
  • Spinach – For a hint of green in the curry. Kale works, too.
  • Sugar – This is optional but balances the flavors very well.
  • Lime juice
ingredients for Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas in individual white bowls.

How to make sweet potato curry with chickpeas

Find the complete recipe with measurements in the recipe card below.

Start by sautéing the garlic and ginger in an oiled skillet over medium heat. 

cooking garlic in a black skillet.

Stir in the red curry paste and turmeric to coat the aromatics, then pour in the coconut milk and water/broth. Stir to combine and use a wooden spoon to loosen any bits of food stuck to the bottom of the pan.

stirring red curry sauce with a wooden spoon in a black skillet.

Add the sweet potatoes, chickpeas, salt, and pepper to the curry.

Heat to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork tender.

For deeper layers of flavor, roast the sweet potatoes (tossed in a little olive oil) in a 400ºF oven for 30 to 45 minutes, then add them to the curry with the chickpeas and only simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.

stirring sweet potatoes into a red curry sauce with a wooden spoon in a black skillet.

To finish, stir the spinach, sugar, and lime juice into the curry and cook until the spinach is wilted. 

Take the skillet off the heat and serve the curry right away over cooked basmati rice with cilantro or Thai basil on top. Enjoy!

fresh spinach on top of red curry in a black skillet.

Frequently asked questions

What else can I add to vegan curry?

As with most curry recipes, you can add all kinds of different vegetables or plant proteins to make the recipe your own. Add fresh or frozen vegetables, swap the chickpeas for white beans, lentils, cauliflower florets, or broccoli florets, and/or add fried tofu cubes for extra protein.

Is red curry paste spicy?

Most red curry paste has a mild to medium level of heat, but it varies from brand to brand. In this recipe, most of the heat is tempered by the coconut milk, so you won’t set your mouth on fire.

If you’re still worried about it being too spicy, you can start with only 1 1/2 tablespoons of red curry paste, then gradually add more until you reach just the right amount of heat.

I can’t find red curry paste. What can I use instead?

Don’t use yellow curry paste or green curry paste as a substitute. They will completely change the flavor profile! Instead, replace the red curry paste with 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 2 teaspoons of curry powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin. The flavor will be different but will complement the veggies and warm flavors well.

How do I store leftover sweet potato curry?

Wait for the curry to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the fridge for 4 to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas served with white rice in a white bowl.
Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas served with white rice in a white bowl.
Print

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas

Sweet Potato Curry with Chickpeas and Spinach is an easy one-pot meal you can make for weeknight dinners and meal prep! It’s comforting, flexible, and loaded with flavor.
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Thai-inspired
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 5 servings
Calories 335kcal

Ingredients

Sweet Potato Curry

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 large cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
  • 3 tablespoons red curry paste vegan friendly
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and chopped into 1/2 inch chunks
  • 13.5 ounce can full fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 15 ounce can chickpeas or lentils, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups baby spinach or kale
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar optional
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

For Serving

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the garlic and ginger and cook, stirring frequently for 1-2 minutes.
  • Stir in the red curry paste and turmeric, then pour in the coconut milk and water. Stir to combine and scrape any stuck bits from the bottom.
  • To the pan, add the sweet potatoes, chickpeas or lentils, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork tender.
  • Stir in the baby spinach, sugar and lime juice. Cook until the spinach is wilted, then remove from heat and serve over cooked rice with cilantro or basil.

Notes

  1. Any kind of sweet potato will work here, or yams. Pumpkin or squash would be a good substitute if you have it.
  2. If you don’t have red curry paste, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 2 teaspoons curry powder and 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin. The flavor will be quite different.
  3. You can leave out the chickpeas/lentils if desired. Add some cauliflower florets or even broccoli, instead.
  4. Nutritional information is an estimate only and does not include rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1of 5 servings | Calories: 335kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 782mg | Potassium: 756mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 16509IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 113mg | Iron: 5mg

1-Pot Spicy Pumpkin Tomato Soup

Busy, chilly days call for EASY, warming soups! Enter: Our 1-POT Spicy Pumpkin Soup with coconut milk, tomatoes, and warming Caribbean-inspired spices. It’s delicious, comforting, and comes together with simple pantry staples!
Even better? There’s mini…

1-Pot Spicy Pumpkin Tomato Soup

Busy, chilly days call for EASY, warming soups! Enter: Our 1-POT Spicy Pumpkin Soup with coconut milk, tomatoes, and warming Caribbean-inspired spices. It’s delicious, comforting, and comes together with simple pantry staples!

Even better? There’s minimal chopping and it’s ready in about 30 minutes. Let’s make soup!

This pumpkin soup is about as simple + flavorful as it gets! Chop onion, garlic, and ginger, then add a few everyday spices, open a few cans, and let it simmer.

1-Pot Spicy Pumpkin Tomato Soup from Minimalist Baker →

Chicken Chili Supper: A Guide to Making the Perfect Meal

Warm, hearty, and just spicy enough – this dinner is bound to become a winter time staple!

chicken chili supper featuredWarm, hearty, and just spicy enough - this dinner is bound to become a winter time staple!