Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp

Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances zesty citrus flavors, tender shrimp, and nutritious broccoli. Tossed with al dente pasta, this meal is quick, light, and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining.

The lemon-infused sauce brings brightness to every bite, while the shrimp adds a rich, protein-packed element. Broccoli florets not only provide a pop of color but also a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins, creating a wholesome dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad, and you have a complete meal that’s as delicious as it is versatile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Light and Refreshing: The lemon sauce gives the dish a fresh, citrusy flavor that’s perfect year-round.
Healthy and Balanced: Packed with protein, vegetables, and whole grains, it’s a meal you can feel good about.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite pasta, additional vegetables, or spices.
Elegant Presentation: Perfect for serving guests, this dish looks as impressive as it tastes.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces spaghetti, linguine, or your preferred pasta
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
• 3 cups broccoli florets

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup pasta cooking water
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta. This allows the broccoli to cook while retaining its vibrant green color and texture.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by the reserved pasta cooking water. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce and thicken.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. Return the cooked pasta, broccoli, and shrimp to the skillet with the lemon sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley. Add extra Parmesan cheese on top for serving.
2. Serve the Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp hot, with lemon wedges on the side for additional zest.

Ingredient Background

Pasta

Spaghetti or linguine works best for this recipe, as their long strands hold the sauce beautifully. Whole-grain or gluten-free pasta can be used for dietary preferences.

Shrimp

Shrimp is a lean protein source that cooks quickly, making it ideal for this fast-paced recipe. Be sure to use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best flavor.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a nutrient powerhouse that adds texture, color, and flavor. Lightly boiling it with the pasta ensures it’s tender yet crisp.

Lemon

Fresh lemons are key to the bright and tangy flavor of this dish. Use both the zest and juice for maximum citrus impact.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami richness that complements the brightness of the lemon. Choose freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.

Technique Tips

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta so it finishes cooking in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors.

Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.

Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce, giving it a silky texture.

Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice doesn’t offer the same vibrant flavor as freshly squeezed juice.

Toss Gently: When combining the pasta, broccoli, and shrimp with the sauce, toss gently to avoid breaking the broccoli florets.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Pasta Bake: Transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, and broil for a few minutes until golden and crispy.

Cold Pasta Salad: Let the dish cool and serve as a refreshing pasta salad for picnics or potlucks. Add cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for extra crunch.

Zoodles Version: Replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option.

Seafood Medley: Add scallops or mussels alongside the shrimp for a seafood feast.

Additional Tips for Success

Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh lemons, high-quality shrimp, and good Parmesan cheese elevate the flavor of this simple dish.

Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients chopped and measured before starting, as this recipe comes together quickly.

Reheat Gently: If reheating leftovers, do so on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Make It Your Own: Adjust the lemon juice, Parmesan, or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Recipe Variations

Garlic-Lemon Cream Sauce: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier version.

Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and add more broccoli, or substitute with chickpeas or roasted cherry tomatoes for protein.

Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh basil or dill alongside the parsley for a burst of herbaceous flavor.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: While the pasta and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months, the broccoli and shrimp may lose texture when thawed. For best results, freeze the pasta separately and prepare fresh broccoli and shrimp when reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving shrimp to prevent overcooking.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Whole-Grain Pasta: Use whole-grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or asparagus to increase the vegetable content and nutritional value.

Low-Fat Sauce: Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter sauce.

Low-Sodium Stock: If adding chicken or vegetable stock to the sauce, choose a low-sodium option to reduce salt content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Dinner Party Elegance: Serve the dish in individual bowls, garnished with parsley and lemon zest for an elegant touch. Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Family Meal: Present the pasta family-style in a large serving dish, accompanied by a side of garlic bread and a Caesar salad.

Light Lunch: Pair a smaller portion of the pasta with a bowl of minestrone soup for a balanced midday meal.

Brunch Spread: Include this pasta as part of a brunch buffet, alongside quiches, fruit platters, and mimosas.

Special Equipment

Large Pot: For boiling pasta and broccoli together efficiently.

Skillet: A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and proper sauce reduction.

Microplane Zester: Perfect for zesting lemons finely without the bitter white pith.

Tongs: Useful for tossing the pasta and sauce gently without breaking ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
2. Can I substitute another vegetable for broccoli?
   Absolutely! Asparagus, green beans, or spinach make excellent substitutes.
3. What’s the best pasta for this dish?
   Long pasta like spaghetti or linguine is ideal, but penne or fusilli can also work well.
4. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thin?
   Simmer the sauce a bit longer to reduce it, or add more Parmesan cheese to thicken it.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Substitute the butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
6. How do I know when the shrimp is done?
   Shrimp is fully cooked when it turns pink and opaque, usually 2–3 minutes per side.
7. What’s the best wine pairing for this dish?
   A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.
8. Can I add protein other than shrimp?
   Grilled chicken, scallops, or tofu are excellent alternatives.

Conclusion

Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp is a refreshing, elegant dish that combines bold citrus flavors, tender shrimp, and wholesome broccoli. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a balance of simplicity and sophistication that’s sure to impress.

Whether served as a family dinner or a dinner party centerpiece, this pasta dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Try it today and experience a burst of flavor that will make it a new favorite in your recipe collection!

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