Go Back
There’s something magical about the combination of shrimp, garlic, and lemon that instantly transports me to sun-soaked coastal towns, where the aroma of fresh seafood fills the air. I remember my first culinary adventure in a quaint little Italian restaurant by the sea, where I indulged in a plate of perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a vibrant sauce. It was there that I fell in love with the simplicity and brightness of pasta dishes, particularly those that featured the zestiness of lemon and the richness of garlic. Fast forward to today, and I’m excited to share my own take on this delightful experience—Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Broccoli Pasta. This dish is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Broccoli Pasta

Elevate your dinner with this Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Broccoli Pasta, a vibrant dish that combines succulent shrimp, fresh broccoli, and al dente pasta in a bright lemon-garlic sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. With simple ingredients and a deliciously aromatic blend of flavors, this recipe showcases how easy it is to create a culinary masterpiece at home. Dive into the flavors today and make mealtime memorable!

Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 cups broccoli florets

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup olive oil

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the final 3 minutes of cooking, carefully add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.

    Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant and golden but be cautious to prevent burning.

      Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque, ensuring they are cooked through.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, introduce the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Add the lemon juice and zest, tossing all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes, per your preference.

          Finish & Serve: Off the heat, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and coats the pasta evenly. Plate the zesty pasta generously, and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

            Enjoy!: Serve immediately while warm, and savor the bright and zesty flavors of your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Broccoli Pasta!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top, along with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra pop of color and zest.