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Lemon and Broccoli Pasta with Shrimp: A Vibrant Dish for Healthy Living

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A vibrant, flavorful pasta dish that combines the zest of lemon, the crunch of broccoli, and the richness of shrimp for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz of whole wheat pasta
  • 1 lb of shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cups of broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon of capers for an added tang (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets and set aside.
  3. Peel and devein shrimp if needed. Pat dry with paper towel.
  4. Mince garlic and zest the lemon. Set lemon zest and juice aside.
  5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
  6. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove from skillet.
  7. In the same skillet, add broccoli and a splash of reserved pasta water. Cover and steam for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  8. Return shrimp to skillet. Add cooked pasta, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss well, adding more pasta water if needed for sauce.
  9. Adjust seasoning. Stir in Parmesan if using.
  10. Garnish with herbs, pine nuts, or capers. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Don’t overcook the shrimp or pasta. Gluten-free pasta or vegan substitutes like chickpeas can be used.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon, broccoli, shrimp, pasta, healthy, quick meal

Find it online: https://www.eatbrightly.com/lemon-and-broccoli-pasta-with-shrimp/