This Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta is super tasty and healthy! With juicy shrimp, fresh broccoli, and a zingy lemon sauce, it’s a flavor party in every bite.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love how quick it comes together, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. Plus, who doesn’t love slurping up some delicious pasta? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti for this dish, but you can swap it for any pasta you like, like linguine or fettuccine. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works if that’s your preference!
Shrimp: Large, peeled shrimp are ideal for this recipe. If you don’t eat shrimp, feel free to substitute with grilled chicken or tofu for a tasty twist.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a nice crunch and color. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli can work too; just make sure to thaw it first.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be a substitute, but fresh has a better taste!
Lemon: The lemon zest and juice brighten up the dish! If you’re out of lemons, limes can be a great substitute, or even a splash of vinegar could work in a pinch.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp may seem tricky, but it’s easy when you know the steps. Key is not to overcook them, which can make them rubbery.
- Heat your skillet with olive oil and butter on medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking.
- Add your shrimp in a single layer. They should sizzle when they hit the pan!
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
Just remember: when shrimp curl and turn pink, they’re done. This way, you’ll get juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
How to Make Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Protein:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Flavoring & Oil:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a quick, healthy meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. About 3-4 minutes before the pasta finishes, toss in the fresh broccoli florets. Once everything is cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli together, making sure to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set them aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Just watch out not to let it burn—nobody likes bitter garlic!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to add the shrimp to the skillet! Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and the red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Add Lemon Zest and Juice:
Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet. Give it a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors!
5. Combine Everything:
Next, add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until well mixed. If the dish appears a bit dry, gently stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches the consistency you like.
6. Final Touches:
Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch, then taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta hot. Feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish, if you like. Enjoy your fresh, healthy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or quickly run them under cold water before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, definitely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus to the mix. Just make sure to cook them for a few minutes before adding the shrimp so they become tender.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if it looks dry.
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Of course! You can use any type of pasta you like, including whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
