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Delve into the refreshing world of seafood with our Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta. This delightful dish combines the succulent taste of shrimp with the bright, zingy flavors of lemon and garlic, creating a culinary experience that is both satisfying and invigorating. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients courtesy of fresh spinach and garlic. The marriage of flavors in this dish highlights the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh ingredients shine through.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta With Spinach

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta! This quick and easy recipe features succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic and a hint of red pepper, tossed in a zesty lemon sauce with fresh baby spinach and al dente pasta. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it's the perfect weeknight meal that comes together in just 25 minutes. Elevate your dinner with this delicious and light dish that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

4 cups fresh baby spinach

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

    Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

      Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the lemon juice, zest, and spinach to the skillet, stirring until the spinach wilts. Return the shrimp to the skillet, mixing everything together.

          Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Pour in some reserved pasta cooking water, starting with 1/4 cup, and toss everything together to combine. The pasta should be coated in the garlic-lemon sauce; add more water as needed for consistency.

            Finish with Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary. Cook for an additional minute to let everything meld together.

              Serve: Plate the pasta and shrimp, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings