Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta With Spinach

The tantalizing aroma of sautéed garlic and lemon can fill your kitchen in mere minutes, instantly making you feel at home. This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta With Spinach is not only a delightful dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of succulent shrimp, bright lemon, and fresh spinach makes it a standout meal that works beautifully for both casual dinners and special occasions.

This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who want a quick yet impressive meal. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or when hosting friends. You can easily make the dish ahead of time; just store the cooked components separately and reheat them together before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The shrimp is quickly sautéed for a tender, juicy texture.
• Bright lemon and garlic elevate the flavor profile.
• Spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition.
• Pasta offers a satisfying base that ties everything together.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful pasta dish:

For the Pasta

• 5 ounces pasta, dry (approx. 140 grams; enough for 2 people)

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp, thawed + tails removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
• Salt + pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups spinach
• 1/2 a lemon, juice + zest
• 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Salt + pepper, to taste

For Serving (Optional)

• Fresh parmesan, to serve

Use lemon juice from a bottle if fresh isn’t available.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Shrimp can be replaced with chicken or tofu.
• Any pasta shape will work in this recipe.
• Use kale instead of spinach for added texture.
• Swap olive oil for butter for a richer flavor.

How to Make It

Here’s how to create this delicious dish.

Prep

Thaw shrimp and remove tails and shells. Mince garlic, zest lemon peel, and chop basil or parsley.

Boil Pasta

Bring a pot of water to boil for the pasta. Cook according to package directions, then drain and return to the pot.

Season Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry with a paper towel. Place them in a bowl, then toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Cook Shrimp

Heat a large pan over medium-high. Working in batches, add the shrimp to the pan, leaving space between each shrimp. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until opaque. Remove from the pan and place into a clean bowl.

Sauté Garlic

Once all shrimp are cooked, add 1 more tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Cook minced garlic for 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned and fragrant.

Add Spinach

Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.

Combine Ingredients

Turn off heat. Add cooked pasta to the pan, along with lemon zest, lemon juice, remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, cooked shrimp, and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.

Serve

Serve hot, topping with freshly grated parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, pasta tends to become mushy.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure shrimp are fully thawed for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp for the best sear.
• Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your spice preference.
• Toss the pasta quickly after combining to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
• Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine.
• Serve as a luxurious weekend dinner option.