Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp with Quick Veggie Pasta
This quick and easy recipe combines tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and vibrant vegetables in a luscious garlic butter lemon sauce, making for a perfect weeknight meal.
Equipment
- large pot
- colander
- paper towels
- medium bowl
- large skillet or pan
- cooking spoon/tongs
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb medium shrimp (31/40 count), peeled and deveined, fresh or frozen and thawed
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for adult spice)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz penne or spaghetti pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
For Serving
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
Cooking Pasta and Vegetables
- Cook pasta according to package directions, adding broccoli and peas during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Drain the pasta and vegetables well, then set them aside.
Preparing Shrimp
- Pat thawed shrimp dry with paper towels.
Cooking Shrimp
- Toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
- Heat remaining olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until opaque pink.
- Remove cooked shrimp from the pan and set aside immediately.
Making the Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet and sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in lemon juice and broth, simmering for 1-2 minutes while scraping browned bits from the pan.
Combining and Serving
- Return shrimp, pasta, broccoli, and peas to the skillet, then toss gently to combine and warm through for about 1 minute.
- Stir in fresh chopped parsley, then taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Serve immediately, optionally topped with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before cooking for better searing. For extra flavor, use homemade chicken or vegetable broth. Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference.