When I’m busy on a weeknight, I always make this Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp. It brings back summer evenings. I once bought fresh broccoli and lemons at the farmer’s market. They were perfect with shrimp and pasta.
This shrimp lemon pasta recipe is a mix of lemon zest, broccoli, and sweet shrimp. It’s a quick, healthy meal that everyone loves. It’s ready in under 30 minutes. Let’s make this shrimp pasta with lemon sauce and broccoli together!
Introduction to Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp
Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp is a dish that excites your senses. It’s simple yet full of flavor. The shrimp and broccolini are tender, and the lemon adds a zesty kick.
This recipe is great for any meal. It’s perfect as a main dish or a side. It’s also quick to make, ideal for busy nights.
The dish looks as good as it tastes. It’s colorful and full of flavor. You can make it in just 30 minutes.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Noodles (spaghetti/linguine/bucatini) | 1 lb |
| Shrimp | 1 lb |
| Broccolini | 2 cups |
| Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Crushed Red Pepper Flakes | 1/2 tsp (adjustable) |
| Garlic Cloves | 4 |
| Lemon Juice and Zest | From 1 lemon |
| Reserved Pasta Cooking Liquid | 1/2 cup |
| Total Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
Why You Should Try Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp
Trying creamy lemon shrimp pasta is a treat for your taste buds. It also offers health benefits. Shrimp and broccoli make a dish that’s both healthy and tasty.
Health Benefits of Shrimp and Broccoli
Shrimp and broccoli are great for you. Shrimp is full of protein and low in calories. It’s perfect for a healthy diet.
Broccoli adds important vitamins and minerals. It makes you feel better overall. Shrimp also has omega-3s and antioxidants for your heart.
Each serving has about 628 kcal. You can enjoy a big meal without feeling bad.
Flavor Profile of the Dish
The lemon shrimp pasta tastes bright and fresh. Lemon juice and zest make it zesty. Garlic and fire-roasted tomatoes add depth and sweetness.
Grated Parmesan cheese makes it creamy. It all comes together for a great taste.
Easy Lemon Shrimp Pasta: Ingredients You’ll Need
Making shrimp lemon pasta is easy with the right ingredients. I choose fresh items to boost flavor and health. Here’s what you need for a tasty dish. Quality matters for great taste and look.
Essential Ingredients for Success
- 1 pound large or extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 large heads of broccoli (approximately 4 cups)
- 8 ounces whole wheat penne pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 14 ounces diced fire-roasted tomatoes
- Juice and zest of 1 whole lemon
- ¼ cup olive oil (divided into 2 tablespoons each)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tips for Choosing Quality Shrimp
Choose large or extra-large shrimp for the best taste and texture. They should be fresh, firm, and smell like the sea. If fresh shrimp is hard to find, frozen is okay. Just thaw them well before cooking.
How to Make Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp
Gathering all the ingredients makes cooking easier. This recipe is great for beginners. I’ll guide you through each step, making it fun and easy.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- First, boil a big pot of salted water. Add 8 ounces of linguine or your favorite pasta. Cook until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- In another big skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1.25 pounds of shelled, deveined shrimp. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they’re pink and opaque. Then, take the shrimp out and set them aside.
- Keep the same skillet and add the remaining oil. Sauté 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes until they smell good.
- Next, add 4 cups of broccoli florets and 4 cups of baby spinach. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 5 minutes.
- When the veggies are done, put the shrimp back in the skillet. Add 4 tablespoons of butter, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is mixed well.
- Drain the pasta and save a little pasta water. Toss the pasta with the shrimp and veggies in the skillet. If it’s too dry, add a bit of reserved water to make the sauce silky.
Timing and Cooking Tips
For the best results, watch the timing closely. Shrimp cook fast, so add them last to keep them warm. Preparing some ingredients before cooking can make it easier. Chopping broccoli and mincing garlic ahead of time helps a lot.
By following these steps and paying attention to timing, you’ll make a delicious lemon broccoli pasta with shrimp. It’s sure to be a hit!
Alternative Variations of Shrimp Lemon Pasta Recipe
The Lemon Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp is very versatile. I love making a creamy version by adding reduced-fat cream cheese or heavy cream. This makes the sauce rich and perfect with the lemon and shrimp.
Want to try something different? Swap shrimp for chicken for a hearty dish. Or, skip the shrimp and add more veggies like spinach or zucchini. These changes make the dish tasty and nutritious.
Don’t be afraid to play with flavors. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. Or, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness. Trying new things makes the dish exciting!
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp
To make my lemon and broccoli pasta great, I need to cook the shrimp right. Shrimp cook fast, and timing is everything. Here’s how to cook them just right and avoid overcooking.
Understanding Shrimp Cooking Times
Timing is key when cooking shrimp. They need 1-3 minutes per side, depending on size. For my recipe, medium-sized shrimp cook in 5-6 minutes.
It’s best to take them off the heat when they’re just pink and look opaque. This keeps them tender and juicy, not tough.
Avoiding Overcooked Shrimp
Overcooked shrimp can mess up your dish. To avoid this, cook them separately. This way, you can watch them closely.
Undercook them a bit before adding to the pasta. The pasta’s heat will finish cooking the shrimp. This trick is key to perfect shrimp.
| Cooking Time (Minutes) | Shrimp Size | Perfectly Cooked | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-3 | Small (41-50 per pound) | Tender | Juicy |
| 3-5 | Medium (26-30 per pound) | Firm | Succulent |
| 5-6 | Large (21-25 per pound) | Firm | Plump |
With these tips, you’ll cook shrimp perfectly every time. Your lemon and broccoli pasta will wow everyone!
Choosing the Right Pasta for Your Dish
Choosing the right pasta is key for a great Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp. The right shape can make your dish better. I’ll show you the best pasta shapes for shrimp dishes.
Popular Pasta Shapes for Shrimp Dishes
Many pasta shapes go well with shrimp. Each shape has its own special benefit. Here’s a quick guide to some top choices:
- Penne: This tubular pasta catches the flavors of shrimp and sauce well.
- Rotini: Its spiral shape holds onto shrimp and veggies nicely.
- Farfalle: Also known as bowtie pasta, it adds a fun touch to shrimp dishes.
- Fusilli: Like rotini, its corkscrew shape helps flavors stick and makes for a tasty bite.
- Spaghetti: A classic choice that goes great with light lemony sauces, perfect for shrimp.
When picking pasta for shrimp, think about cooking time and texture. Short shapes like penne or rotini mix well with shrimp and veggies. This ensures every bite is full of flavor. For gluten-free options, try rice noodles or quinoa pasta. They make this dish good for many diets.
Low-Calorie Lemon Broccoli Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. My recipe is full of flavor and low in calories. It uses whole-wheat penne pasta for fiber and shrimp for protein.
Here’s what you need:
- 8 ounces whole wheat penne
- 1 pound raw shrimp
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large heads of broccoli (approximately 4 cups when cut into florets)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
This pasta is quick and nutritious. Each serving has about 445 calories, 32.2 g of protein, and 6.1 g of fiber. It’s ready in just 30 minutes.
I use olive oil for healthy fats and less cheese for a lighter taste. Broccoli stays crisp by adding it last.
Cooking is easy. Shrimp cook in 3-4 minutes. The whole dish is ready in under 30 minutes. Serve 2 cups for a filling meal.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 445 kcal |
| Protein | 32.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 47.7 g |
| Fat | 17.7 g |
| Sodium | 754 mg |
| Fiber | 6.1 g |
Try my recipe for a delicious, healthy meal. It’s vibrant and wholesome.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
When you serve lemon garlic shrimp pasta, how it looks matters a lot. I suggest a few ways to make it look good. Start by sprinkling Parmesan cheese all over. It makes the dish taste better and feels nice in your mouth.
Adding red pepper flakes gives it a fun kick. It makes the dish more lively. A sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh look, making it more appealing.
Pairing it with a green salad is a great idea. Try arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing. It matches the lemon garlic flavors well. A glass of Sauvignon Blanc wine also pairs well, making the meal even better.
These ideas can make your shrimp pasta dish stand out. It turns a simple meal into something special. By presenting it creatively, you can impress everyone and make the meal unforgettable.
Storing and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
Enjoying leftover Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp is easy. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for 3 to 4 days at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. This stops bacteria from growing.
How to Keep Your Dish Fresh
Eating your shrimp Alfredo within a couple of days is best. Pasta gets soggy and sauce separates if it sits too long. Freezing is a good option if you want to keep it longer.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags to freeze it. This keeps it fresh for 2 to 3 months. Freeze it soon after cooking for the best taste.
Reheating Techniques
Reheating shrimp pasta needs some care. Here are some ways to do it right:
- Boiling water: Dip your pasta in boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds. This warms it up without making it mushy.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat it in a pan over medium-high heat for 2 to 5 minutes. Stir often.
- Microwave: Start with 1 to 1.5 minutes. Add 15-second increments until it’s hot. A splash of water or sauce helps prevent drying.
Make sure the dish heats up to 165°F (74°C) for safety. By following these tips, you can enjoy your pasta even after it’s been stored.
Final Thoughts on Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp
This dish is great for any time. It’s perfect for a casual dinner or a fancy party. The fresh shrimp and Barilla Angel Hair Pasta make it a hit with everyone.
Making this pasta is easy. You just need a few things like lemon and parmesan. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick dinner.
Feel free to make it your own. Try new veggies or spices. Cooking at home is all about being creative and enjoying your food. I hope you love making and sharing this recipe!
