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Garlic Shrimp Linguine with Spinach

This quick and flavorful Garlic Shrimp Linguine with Spinach features tender shrimp and al dente pasta tossed in a light garlic-infused sauce with fresh spinach and a hint of lemon. It's a perfect weeknight meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Pan
  • Strainer
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz linguine pasta
  • Salt for pasta water
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 6-8 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • 5 oz fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese grated (for serving)

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Cook linguine in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining and setting aside.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan and cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink, then remove and set aside.
  • In the same pan, lower heat to medium, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and cook minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in chicken broth, scrape up any pan bits, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
  • Add fresh spinach to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts.
  • Return shrimp and linguine to the pan, add 1/4 cup reserved pasta water, and toss to coat; add more pasta water if needed.
  • Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For best results, do not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing to avoid a bitter taste. The reserved pasta water is key for creating a silky sauce, so don't skip it! Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes for your preferred level of spice. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and a lemon wedge if desired.