Description
This Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta combines tender shrimp, vibrant broccoli, and al dente pasta in a light garlic butter sauce. It’s an easy, one-pan dish that’s packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or a cozy dinner, this recipe is both wholesome and comforting!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Blanch the Broccoli:
- While the pasta cooks, add the broccoli to the boiling water for the last 2-3 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time. Remove and set aside with the pasta.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), chicken or vegetable broth, and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked shrimp and broccoli to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water.
- Customizations: Add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes. For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream.
- Dietary Options: Use gluten-free pasta if needed, or swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast to make it dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American