Lemon Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta

Name: Lemon Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making Lemon Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta as a quick weeknight dinner. The bright flavors of lemon and the fresh crunch of broccoli come together beautifully with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a colorful dish that brings cheer to the table. In just 30 minutes, my family can enjoy a wholesome meal that’s rich in taste and nutrition, making it a favorite in our household. I enjoy experimenting with seasonings to give it my personal twist each time.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-15T16:02:18.506Z

When I first tried Lemon Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta, I was amazed at how vibrant the dish looked on the plate. It burst with colors and flavors that promised a delightful experience. I learned that gently sautéing the shrimp while adding lemon juice enhances the overall taste, creating a refreshing yet savory blend. Every bite is a balance of bright acidity and umami from the shrimp.

Using fresh ingredients is key for this recipe. I made sure to choose vibrant green broccoli and juicy shrimp. The magic happens when you toss everything together; the pasta absorbs the lemony sauce, creating a harmonious blend. I suggest serving it immediately for that perfect tender-crisp texture of the broccoli and plump shrimp.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Perfectly cooked pasta with a satisfying bite
Nutritious shrimp and broccoli for a balanced meal
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Role of Bright Flavors

In this Lemon Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta, the combination of lemon juice and zest is critical for elevating the overall dish. The acidity from the lemon cuts through the richness of the olive oil and enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. When preparing the lemon, make sure to use a microplane for zesting, as this yields fine shavings that disperse evenly throughout the dish, creating vibrant flavor pockets with each bite.

To maximize the lemon's punch, consider using freshly squeezed juice rather than bottled. Fresh juice has a brighter, more fragrant profile that truly shines in this recipe. As you add the juice, a good tip is to start with half and then taste—this allows you to adjust to your preferred level of acidity without overpowering the other flavors.

Perfectly Cooked Pasta and Broccoli

Cooking your pasta just right is crucial to achieving the ideal texture in this dish. Aim for al dente, which means it should offer a slight firmness when bitten. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and absorb too much sauce, compromising the overall experience. When you add the broccoli in the last two minutes of cooking, keep an eye on it: you want it vibrant green and tender-crisp, retaining its nutritional benefits and providing a satisfying crunch.

If you're short on time, you can opt for a different pasta shape, but stick to something that holds sauce well, like fusilli or penne. Just remember to adjust cooking times according to the package instructions while ensuring not to overcook the broccoli. Timing is key to balancing flavor and texture.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider throwing in some bell peppers or snap peas along with the broccoli. Just chop them into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly. Experimenting with different herbs can also bring a unique spin—basil or cilantro can subtly shift the flavor profile while complementing the shrimp beautifully.

For those who prefer a kick, increase the red pepper flakes to your desired heat level, or add a splash of hot sauce at the end. If you're making this dish gluten-free, simply substitute traditional pasta with your favorite gluten-free alternative, ensuring it is cooked to al dente as well. This is a dish that adapts well to whatever ingredients you have on hand, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Lemon Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to cook your pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the shrimp turns pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in lemon juice and zest, tossing everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Divide into servings, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your delicious Lemon Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the shrimp. You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different twist.

Ingredient Highlights

The shrimp in this recipe not only adds protein but also brings a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon. When purchasing shrimp, look for those that are sustainably sourced and have a firm texture. If you're using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best quality.

Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable packed with vitamins, and its bright green color provides an appealing contrast against the pasta. When selecting broccoli, fresh florets should be tight and firm. If you prefer a slightly different vegetable, asparagus or green beans are excellent alternatives that will also work well with the dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit more lemon juice to help revive the flavors and moisture. Avoid using high heat, which can overcook the shrimp and make them rubbery.

For meal prep enthusiasts, you can make the shrimp and veggie mixture ahead of time, storing it separately from the noodles. Just remember to cook the pasta fresh when it's time to eat, which will ensure a more enjoyable texture. This is a dish that can easily transition from a quick weeknight dinner to a pleasant lunch the next day!

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. A light vinaigrette salad can be a refreshing complement, balancing the richness of the dish perfectly.

If you're hosting a dinner, consider pairing the meal with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, which will harmonize beautifully with the bright flavors of the pasta. For a more casual meal, serve it family-style in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves and enjoy the vibrant colors and aromas of this delightful dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for broccoli?

You can substitute broccoli with asparagus or snap peas for a different texture and flavor.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta of your choice, and make sure the shrimp and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and combine shortly before serving.