This Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli is a fresh and tasty dish! Juicy shrimp, crunchy broccoli, and a zingy lemon sauce come together for a meal that’s quick and satisfying.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up after a long day. Plus, it feels fancy enough for a special dinner. I like to serve it with a sprinkle of parmesan on top. Delicious! 🦐🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti works great here. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using chickpea or rice pasta, which offer a nice texture too. My personal favorite is whole wheat pasta for a little extra fiber!
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp will do just fine. Make sure to thaw them properly. If shrimp isn’t your thing, feel free to swap in cooked chicken breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli brings crunch and color. If it’s not in season, you can use frozen broccoli, just be sure to thaw and drain it well. Alternatively, asparagus or green beans make tasty replacements.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. I always prefer the real thing for its strong aroma and taste!
Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the whole dish. If you have limes, they can also bring a great flavor twist. Bottled lemon juice works if you’re in a hurry, but it’s less vibrant.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! You want them to be tender and juicy. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Heat olive oil and butter on medium heat. This combination gives a great flavor.
- Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 1 minute. Don’t let it burn!
- Add your shrimp to the skillet. They only need 2-3 minutes on each side. When they turn pink, they’re ready.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can make them steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if needed.
Following these steps will help you achieve shrimp that are perfectly cooked and tasty!
Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) linguine or spaghetti pasta
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Flavor:
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend approximately 10-15 minutes on prep and cooking, with just a bit of waiting for the pasta to boil. It’s a quick recipe that brings fresh flavors to your dinner table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Just 3 minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. After everything is cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli together and set them aside while you prepare the shrimp.
2. Sauté Garlic and Shrimp:
While your pasta is cooking, it’s time to prepare the shrimp! In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and the red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) and sauté for about 1 minute—just until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper, then cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once they’re cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside while you finish the sauce.
4. Make the Lemon Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 1 minute. This will help blend all the lovely flavors from the garlic and shrimp.
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Return the shrimp, cooked pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything gently to combine, making sure each piece is well-coated with that zesty lemon garlic sauce. If it seems a little dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the pasta water to loosen it up!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once everything is warm and well-mixed, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped parsley and taste your dish. Adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you’d like a creamy finish. Enjoy this fresh and flavorful Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli!
FAQ for Garlic Lemon Shrimp Pasta with Broccoli
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes for a quicker thawing method.
What Can I Substitute for Broccoli?
If you’re not a fan of broccoli or don’t have it on hand, feel free to use other vegetables such as asparagus, snap peas, or green beans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the vegetable you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead. Cook the pasta and broccoli, and store them separately from the shrimp and sauce. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat everything and combine it on the stove!