Pesto Spaghetti with Poached Egg, Avocado and Shrimp

If you’re looking for a fast yet gourmet meal, this Pesto Spaghetti with Poached Egg, Avocado and Shrimp delivers big flavor in just 20 minutes. The combination of vibrant pesto pasta, perfectly seared shrimp, creamy avocado slices, and a runny poached egg creates a dish that feels restaurant-worthy while remaining incredibly simple to prepare.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its balanced flavors and textures. The pesto adds herbaceous richness, the shrimp brings savory protein, avocado contributes creamy smoothness, and the poached egg creates a luxurious sauce when the yolk breaks over the pasta.

Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or a stylish solo lunch, this dish is satisfying, nutritious, and full of fresh ingredients.

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Why I Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons why this recipe quickly becomes a favorite.

It’s incredibly quick.
From start to finish, the entire meal comes together in about 20 minutes.

The textures are perfect together.
Creamy avocado, tender shrimp, silky pasta, and the runny egg yolk create a delicious combination.

It feels like a restaurant dish at home.
Despite its simple preparation, the presentation and flavors are elegant.

If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes like this, you might also love classics like Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple ingredients that combine beautifully for a fresh and satisfying meal.

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked spaghetti tossed in pesto sauce
• 1 poached egg
• 4–5 shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 avocado, sliced

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

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Ingredient Swaps and Notes

You can easily adjust this recipe depending on what you have available.

Pasta options
While spaghetti works perfectly, you can also use linguine, fettuccine, or even penne.

Pesto variations
Traditional basil pesto is ideal, but spinach pesto or kale pesto also work well.

Protein swaps
If shrimp isn’t available, grilled chicken or seared scallops make excellent alternatives.

Avocado substitute
For a different creamy element, burrata or fresh mozzarella can be used.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.

Drain and immediately toss the pasta with pesto sauce until evenly coated.

Set aside.

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2. Poach the Egg

Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer.

Crack the egg into a small bowl, then carefully slide it into the water.

Cook for about 3 minutes, until the white is set but the yolk remains soft and runny.

Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

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3. Sear the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium heat.

Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink, lightly golden, and fully cooked.

Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

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4. Assemble the Dish

Place the pesto spaghetti into a serving bowl.

Top with the seared shrimp, sliced avocado, and the poached egg.

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5. Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle the dish with grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve immediately while warm.

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Tips for the Best Pesto Pasta

Follow these tips to make this dish even better.

Use fresh pesto if possible
Homemade pesto adds incredible flavor and freshness.

Don’t overcook the shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left on the heat too long.

Salt your pasta water
Well-seasoned pasta water enhances the flavor of the entire dish.

Serve immediately
The poached egg should be enjoyed fresh so the yolk creates a creamy sauce.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This dish works beautifully as a standalone meal but can also be paired with complementary sides.

For a fresh and crisp starter, try serving it with Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken.

If you’re hosting a casual lunch or dinner, lighter sides like Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering make a great addition.

For a sandwich-style lunch option, consider pairing it with The Ultimate Turkey Club Wrap for Easy Lunches.

You can also add a lighter protein-based side dish such as Classic Tuna Salad with a Healthy No-Mayo Twist.

And for those who love creamy pasta dishes, Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite is another delicious recipe to explore.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

• Calories: 520
• Fat: 27 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Protein: 28 g

Actual nutrition values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Storage and Leftover Tips

While this dish is best served fresh, leftovers can still be enjoyed.

Refrigerator

Store pasta and shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet with a small splash of water or broth.

Egg tip

It’s best to cook a fresh poached egg when reheating leftovers.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this dish, here are more recipes worth trying:

• Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite
• Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken
• Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering
• Classic Tuna Salad with a Healthy No-Mayo Twist
• The Ultimate Turkey Club Wrap for Easy Lunches

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Final Thoughts

This Pesto Spaghetti with Poached Egg, Avocado and Shrimp proves that a gourmet meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and a beautiful presentation, it’s the perfect recipe when you want something quick yet impressive.

The combination of creamy avocado, savory shrimp, herbaceous pesto, and silky egg yolk creates a dish that feels indulgent but still light and fresh.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment, share your experience, and follow along for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration from Chef Maniac. 🍝