The Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that brings together juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp and crisp tender broccoli, all tossed with al dente pasta in a bright lemony sauce. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen, combining fresh, wholesome ingredients that reward you with layers of flavor and satisfying textures in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just treating yourself, this pasta brings warmth and zest to the table with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is where the magic begins, and for this Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe, simplicity is key. Each component plays a crucial role—shrimp adds juicy protein, broccoli balances with earthiness and crunch, while lemon and garlic inject bursts of freshness and aroma.
- Large shrimp (1 pound): Deveined for ease and perfect for soaking up the lemon pepper flavors.
- Linguine or fettuccine pasta (8 ounces): Use your favorite long pasta to elegantly hold the sauce and mix well with the other components.
- Fresh broccoli florets (2 cups): Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying crisp texture.
- Lemon zest and juice (from 1 lemon): The star for that bright, tangy punch that lifts the whole dish.
- Minced garlic (3-4 cloves): Infuses deep savory notes that complement the shrimp perfectly.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): A smooth base for sautéing and bringing ingredients together.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick of heat to contrast the citrus.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, creamy finish when sprinkled on top before serving.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your linguine or fettuccine according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente so it has just the right bite to balance the tender shrimp and crisp broccoli. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli
In a large skillet heated over medium, drizzle in the olive oil and add your fresh broccoli florets. Let them sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a bright green and reach that delightful tender-crisp texture. This step is crucial because it preserves the broccoli’s natural sweetness and crunch.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Shrimp
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook just until you smell that irresistible aroma filling your kitchen. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. This keeps the shrimp juicy without overcooking.
Step 4: Brighten with Lemon and Seasonings
Stir in the lemon zest and juice right into the skillet, letting that citrus flavor infuse the shrimp and broccoli. Season with freshly ground black pepper, a pinch of salt, and if you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This combination brings everything together with a perfect balance of tanginess and spice.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with Shrimp Mixture
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet and toss it well with the shrimp and broccoli mixture. Make sure every strand is coated evenly with the flavorful sauce, ensuring each bite is bursting with the delicious blend we’ve built so far.
Step 6: Serve with Parmesan
Plate the pasta piping hot and finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheesy touch melts slightly into the warm pasta, adding a creamy, salty contrast that’s simply irresistible.
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil are wonderful garnishes that add a pop of green and fresh aroma. You can also sprinkle a little extra lemon zest on top for a vibrant look and even more citrus zing. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving boosts silky richness.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to add brightness and contrast. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a heartier meal, consider roasted potatoes or grilled veggies alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe family-style in a beautiful shallow bowl, letting everyone help themselves to the colorful mound of pasta and shrimp. Or plate it individually and garnish each with a lemon wedge and freshly ground black pepper for a restaurant-worthy presentation that feels personal and special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps very well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, but it’s best to keep the Parmesan separate until serving to maintain its fresh texture.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the shrimp and broccoli may soften upon thawing. If you need to freeze leftovers, try to consume them within a month and consider freezing without the cheese for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and avoid overcooking the shrimp which can become rubbery if overheated.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water and ensure they sauté beautifully.
What pasta works best with this recipe?
Linguine or fettuccine are ideal as their flat strands hold the sauce nicely, but feel free to use spaghetti or even penne if you prefer a different texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes red pepper flakes as optional, so you can adjust the heat to your liking or omit them completely for a milder dish.
Can I substitute broccoli with other vegetables?
Yes! Asparagus, snap peas, or green beans make excellent alternatives that also provide a satisfying crunch and fresh flavor.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the dish creamy without dairy.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe enough for anyone craving a quick, flavorful, and colorful meal. It’s truly a celebration of fresh ingredients cooked with love, perfect for any night of the week. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite pasta dish!
Print
Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A vibrant and quick Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta combining succulent sautéed shrimp, fresh broccoli, and zesty lemon flavors tossed with linguine for a delicious, light, and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Broccoli: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and become tender-crisp.
- Add Garlic and Shrimp: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Incorporate Flavors: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the shrimp and broccoli evenly.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp Mix: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the lemony sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- You can substitute linguine or fettuccine with any pasta of your choice.
- For extra heat, adjust the quantity of red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
- Ensure shrimp are cooked thoroughly but not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
