Crispy Spinach & Shrimp Pesto Bites

Ingredients

- 1 cup bowtie pasta
- 1 cup penne pasta
- 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup smoked mozzarella, shredded
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Oil for deep frying

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add both the bowtie and penne pasta.
- Cook for 10 minutes or until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, fresh spinach, and shredded smoked mozzarella. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Add the fresh basil pesto and sugar to the shrimp mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.

3. Assemble the Bites:
- Gently fold the cooked pasta into the shrimp mixture, making sure the pasta is well coated with the pesto.

4. Shape the Bites:
- Using your hands, form small balls from the mixture, ensuring each contains a bit of pasta, shrimp, and spinach. Aim for about 1-inch in diameter.

5. Deep Fry the Bites:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot until it reaches a temperature of 350°F.
- Carefully drop the assembled bites into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Serve:
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the contrast of the crispy exterior and the creamy, flavorful interior.

Preparation & Cooking Times

- Preparation Time: PT20M
20 minutes
- Cooking Time: PT20M
20 minutes

Total Time

- Total Time: PT40M
40 minutes

Type of Dish

- Snack

Keywords

- Pesto Shrimp Bites
- Deep Fried Pasta
- Snack Appetizer
- Bowtie Penne Combo
- Crispy Spinach Snack
- Shrimp Recipes
- Gourmet Snacks
- Appetizer Ideas
- Deep Fried Dishes
- Gourmet Finger Food

Recipe Yield

- Feeds 4 adults

Calories

- Total Calories: 850

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