Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- 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.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- 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.
- 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
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley. Add extra Parmesan cheese on top for serving.
- Serve the Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp hot, with lemon wedges on the side for additional zest.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 25g