Description
A vibrant and zesty Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta featuring tender shrimp, fresh broccoli, and linguine in a bright lemon-garlic sauce. This quick and healthy 30-minute recipe balances citrus tang with a hint of spice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Broccoli: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and become tender-crisp.
- Add Garlic and Shrimp: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Then add the deveined shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque throughout.
- Season with Lemon and Spices: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp Mixture: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and broccoli mixture. Toss thoroughly so that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and ingredients.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and serve hot, garnished generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish; avoid bottled lemon juice for optimal taste.
- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of butter after cooking the shrimp.
