Healthy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
A light and fresh garlic shrimp pasta that's easy to prepare and perfect for a quick, healthy dinner.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet for sautéing shrimp and vegetables
- 1 Large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 Colander for draining pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces whole wheat spaghetti
- 1 pound medium shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1 tablespoon capers
- Dash of lemon zest
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds, then add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss with the spinach until wilted. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add optional ingredients if desired.
Serving
- Divide the pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with lemon wedges and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Storage
- Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh or flash-frozen shrimp for best results. Sauté garlic gently to enhance flavor without burning. Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. How to Serve: Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables. Storage & Freshness: Best consumed fresh but can be stored for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prep shrimp and chop vegetables in advance for quicker assembly.