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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta With Spinach

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta With Spinach: A Fresh Weeknight Delight

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta With Spinach is healthy, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 5 ounces dry pasta Gluten-free pasta can be used for dietary restrictions.
For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound shrimp Thawed + tails removed and deveined.
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil Can substitute with another cooking oil if needed.
  • 3 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika Regular paprika can be used for less smokiness.
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes Adjust amount to taste.
  • salt & pepper Use sea salt for a better taste.
For the Aroma & Freshness
  • 5 cloves garlic Minced. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 4 cups spinach Can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard.
  • 1/2 lemon Juice + zest. Lime can be a substitute for a different citrus flavor.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley Can use dried herbs if fresh is not available.
Optional Enhancer
  • fresh parmesan Optional for serving. Omit or substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • medium bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a medium bowl, toss the thawed shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Set aside to marinate.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add approximately 5 ounces of dry pasta and cook according to the package directions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until opaque and pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and sauté minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Once garlic is fragrant, add 4 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
  6. Turn off heat and add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Squeeze half a lemon over the mixture, add lemon zest, and sprinkle in fresh basil. Toss gently to combine.
  7. Plate immediately while hot, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired and additional fresh herbs for color.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. Customize with extra veggies or grains for variety.

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