This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings together wholesome ingredients for a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Nutritious: Packed with protein-rich shrimp and iron-loaded spinach.
Flavorful: The combination of garlic, lemon, and smoked paprika offers a delightful taste.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
Minimal Cleanup: Uses simple cookware, reducing post-meal cleanup time.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Pasta: Approximately 5 ounces of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine).
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and flavor enhancement.
Garlic: Five cloves, minced, providing aromatic depth.
Shrimp: Fresh or thawed, peeled and deveined.
Spinach: Four cups of fresh leaves, adding color and nutrients.
Lemon: Half a lemon, juiced, for a zesty kick.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
Chili Flakes: Optional, for a hint of heat.
Salt & Pepper: To taste.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Prep Ahead: Mince garlic and juice lemon before cooking to streamline the process.
Pasta Choice: Opt for whole-grain or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Shrimp Prep: Ensure shrimp are thoroughly thawed and patted dry for optimal searing.
Spinach Handling: Wash and dry spinach to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
Flavor Balance: Adjust lemon juice and chili flakes to match your taste preferences.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach
Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet, season with smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Remove shrimp and set aside.
Wilt Spinach: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
Add spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
Combine Ingredients: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet with spinach.
Add drained pasta, lemon juice, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency.
Serve: Divide pasta among plates, garnish with additional chili flakes or lemon zest if desired, and serve warm.
What to Serve It With
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Green Salad: A simple side salad with vinaigrette complements the dish.
White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well.
Roasted Vegetables: Add variety and nutrients to your meal.
Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle on top for added richness (if not dairy-free).
Variations / Substitutions
Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein source.
Vegetable Additions: Incorporate cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Herb Enhancements: Add fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes to control the heat intensity.
Dairy-Free Option: Omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture.
Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp and spinach may lose texture upon thawing.
Meal Prep: Prepare components ahead and assemble just before serving for best results.
Lunch Option: Pack leftovers for a flavorful next-day lunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely, grated Parmesan or a dairy-free alternative can enhance the flavor.
What other greens can I use?
Kale or arugula can be substituted for spinach, adjusting cooking time as needed.
How do I prevent overcooking shrimp?
Cook until they turn pink and opaque, typically 2-3 minutes per side.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
