There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a meal that feels both indulgent and healthy—especially on those busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked dish but are short on time. Picture this: tender shrimp sizzling in a garlicky, lemony sauce, paired with vibrant spinach and your favorite pasta, all coming together in under an hour. That’s exactly what my Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach delivers—a quick, nutritious meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
With hints of smoked paprika and a touch of chili flakes, this dish packs a flavorful punch without overwhelming your palate. Plus, it’s versatile enough to allow for ingredient swaps, whether you’re aiming for a gluten-free option or looking to incorporate more greens. Join me in creating a delightful dinner that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also banish those fast food cravings for good!
Why opt for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta With Spinach?
Simplicity at Its Best: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Bright, Refreshing Flavor: The lemony zing combined with garlic adds a delightful contrast to the succulent shrimp.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients from spinach, it’s a guilt-free indulgence!
Versatility: You can easily swap in different greens or pasta types to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.
For more light and nutritious meal ideas, be sure to check out my guide on healthy weeknight dinners.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – 1 pound, thawed with tails removed for a juicy, protein-packed base.
• Olive Oil – 1 Tbsp + 3 additional for cooking; essential for a flavorful sauté.
• Smoked Paprika – 1 tsp; adds a delightful smokiness that complements the shrimp.
• Chili Flakes – ½ tsp; offers a mild kick you can adjust to your taste.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste; enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
For the Pasta
• Pasta – Approx. 5 ounces (140 grams); any shape works, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Garlic – 5 cloves, minced; gives the dish its robust and aromatic flavor.
For the Greens
• Spinach – 4 cups; brings freshness and nutrients; can substitute with kale or Swiss chard for a twist.
For the Sauce
• Lemon – ½, juice + zest; brightens the dish with a refreshing acidity.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley – ¼ cup, chopped; adds a burst of fresh flavor; can swap with Italian herbs if preferred.
Optional Toppings
• Fresh Parmesan – For serving, adds richness if desired.
Feel free to customize this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach to suit your taste and preferences— the possibilities are endless!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach
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Prepare Shrimp: Toss the thawed shrimp in olive oil, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until well-coated, then set aside to absorb all the flavors.
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Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and return the pasta to the pot.
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Sauté Shrimp: In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the shrimp in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn opaque. Once cooked, remove from the pan and set aside.
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Cook Garlic and Spinach: In the same pan, add a bit of olive oil and sauté minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, lemon zest and juice, remaining olive oil, and chopped herbs to the pan. Gently toss everything together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Dish up your vibrant pasta and shrimp mixture hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan if desired, for that finishing touch.
Optional: Garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach are a fantastic choice for those busy meal prep days! You can wash and chop your spinach up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Additionally, the shrimp can be seasoned (with olive oil, smoked paprika, and spices) and marinated in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and sauté the shrimp along with the garlic and spinach until everything is heated through—resulting in a delicious dish just as vibrant as when made fresh. This strategy not only saves time but ensures that you can enjoy a wholesome dinner with minimal hassle on those hectic weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta With Spinach
Fridge: Store leftover Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to revive the sauce.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a pan over low heat to maintain the pasta’s texture, stirring occasionally. If it seems dry, add a little olive oil or broth to loosen it up.
Separation Tip: If you plan to freeze, consider storing the shrimp separately from the pasta and sauce to prevent overcooking during reheating.
Expert Tips for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
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Pat Down Shrimp: Make sure to dry the shrimp well before seasoning. This helps achieve that beautiful caramelized edge and depth of flavor.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while sautéing. They should be opaque and firm; cooking them too long can lead to a rubbery texture.
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Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, cut back on the chili flakes or omit them entirely. The Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta still shines without the kick!
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Use Fresh Greens: Fresh spinach offers a vibrant flavor, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try kale or Swiss chard. Just remember to cook them slightly longer for a perfect tender bite.
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Pasta Cooking Tips: Always salt your pasta water. This adds flavor right from the get-go and enhances the final dish!
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Mix and Match: Feel free to add seasonal veggies like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for extra nutrition and color in your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta.
What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach?
Create a memorable meal by adding delightful sides to complement the vibrant flavors of this pasta dish.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of fresh garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, enhancing your dining experience.
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Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta, making for a delightful balance of textures.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted seasonal veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini, add a hearty, sweet touch that beautifully pairs with the shrimp’s savory notes.
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Lemon Sorbet: If you’re craving dessert, a light lemon sorbet serves as a palate cleanser, echoing the citrusy notes found in the pasta.
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White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing spritzer with white wine and soda water is a wonderful pairing that complements the dish without overpowering its flavors.
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Ratatouille: This traditional French dish offers a medley of flavors that harmonizes nicely with the lemon garlic shrimp pasta, turning your dinner into a culinary adventure.
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Pesto Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh basil pesto adds another layer of flavor and a touch of elegance to the overall meal.
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Caprese Skewers: These skewers, with mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil, add a delightful freshness that mirrors the harmony of ingredients within the pasta dish.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta With Spinach Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your dish just the way you love it!
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Kale Swap: Replace spinach with kale for a heartier flavor and added nutrients. Simply sauté it a bit longer until tender.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta such as rice or quinoa pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
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Veggie Boost: Add in colorful sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and a lovely pop of color to your dish.
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Citrus Twist: Enhance the citrus notes by adding orange or lime zest along with the lemon for a refreshing flavor profile.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs—try dill or cilantro for a unique twist that elevates the dish.
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Heat Level Adjustment: For a bolder kick, increase the chili flakes or add a diced jalapeño into the garlic while sautéing.
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Creamy Version: Stir in a bit of coconut cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy and rich texture.
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Protein Alternatives: Swap out shrimp for scallops, chicken, or even chickpeas for a delightful spin on the protein base.
With these variations, you can make your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach uniquely yours, ensuring it’s a dish you’ll always look forward to enjoying!
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this dish?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for firm, translucent flesh without any dark spots or strong fishy odors. Fresh shrimp should have a slight salty scent, reminiscent of the ocean. If buying frozen, choose shrimp that have been flash-frozen and are well-sealed in their packaging.
Can I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
Yes, leftovers of your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the pasta seems dry.
What’s the best way to freeze Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach?
Certainly! To freeze this dish, first allow it to cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, separating the shrimp from the pasta and sauce if you prefer to avoid overcooking. Label it with the date and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating over low heat on the stove, adding some broth or olive oil to restore moisture.
I’m concerned about overcooking the shrimp; any tips?
Very good question! To prevent overcooking, it’s crucial to cook shrimp only until they are opaque and firm to the touch, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes per side. If they curl tightly, they are overcooked. Keep an eye on them as they cook quickly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is already quite low in lactose, and you can easily make it completely dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan on top. You might also consider using nutritional yeast for a similar flavor profile without the dairy.
Is this dish suitable for pets?
While shrimp themselves can be safe for pets, it’s important to avoid giving them any dish seasonings like garlic, salt, or chili flakes, as these can be harmful to dogs and cats. It’s always best to stick to plain, unseasoned shrimp if sharing with your furry friends!
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach: A Healthy Twist!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toss the thawed shrimp in olive oil, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until well-coated, then set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and return the pasta to the pot.
- In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the shrimp in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn opaque. Once cooked, remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add a bit of olive oil and sauté minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, lemon zest and juice, remaining olive oil, and chopped herbs to the pan. Gently toss everything together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Dish up your vibrant pasta and shrimp mixture hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan if desired, for that finishing touch.