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Healthy Shrimp & Broccoli Lemon Pasta Recipe

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3.8 from 7 reviews

This Healthy Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta with Lemon is a light and flavorful dinner recipe featuring tender shrimp, roasted broccoli, and pasta tossed in a lemon-garlic olive oil dressing, finished with fresh basil and sharp feta cheese. Made without heavy cream or Alfredo sauce, it offers a nutritious, family-friendly meal packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 2 cups dry pasta of choice (fusilli recommended, enough for 4 people)
  • 1 head of broccoli, cut into small florets (about 4 cups)

Protein and Seasonings

  • 1 pound shrimp (thawed, peeled, and tails removed)
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 large handful fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Oils and Cheese

  • 1/4 cup olive oil (divided)
  • Approx. 5 ounces sharp feta cheese (150 grams), crumbled

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Boil Pasta Water: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil in preparation for cooking the pasta.
  2. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Roast Broccoli: Place the chopped broccoli florets in a large baking dish and drizzle with half of the olive oil (about 2 tablespoons). Toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  4. Add Shrimp and Seasonings: Remove the broccoli from the oven, then add the peeled shrimp, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the baking dish. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
  5. Roast Shrimp and Broccoli Together: Return the baking dish to the oven and roast for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque but remain juicy. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery shrimp.
  6. Toss with Pasta and Finish: Remove the dish from the oven, then add the cooked pasta, the remaining olive oil, chopped fresh basil, and optional red pepper flakes to the shrimp and broccoli. Toss everything gently to combine. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Add Cheese and Serve: Crumble the sharp feta cheese over the top. Serve warm immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • LEFTOVERS: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy cold or reheat gently in the microwave.
  • GLUTEN-FREE OPTION: Use gluten-free certified pasta to make this recipe gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
  • CHEESE VARIATION: Instead of feta, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano is a great alternative. For a dairy-free option, omit cheese altogether.