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Healthy Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta with Lemon and Feta Recipe

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4 from 58 reviews

This Healthy Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta with Lemon is a delightful, nutritious dish combining tender shrimp, roasted broccoli, and lemony pasta tossed with feta cheese and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick, wholesome weeknight meal that balances protein, veggies, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

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

Proteins and Flavorings

  • 1 pound shrimp (thawed, peeled, and tails removed)
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 large handful fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Approx. 5 ounces sharp feta cheese (150 grams)

Oils and Seasoning

  • 1/4 cup olive oil (divided)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Boil Water: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for cooking the pasta.
  2. Cook Pasta: Add the dry pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Roast Broccoli: Place the chopped broccoli florets into a large baking dish. Drizzle with half of the olive oil (about 2 tablespoons) and toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until lightly tender and slightly caramelized.
  4. Add Shrimp and Seasonings: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Add peeled shrimp, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the broccoli. Stir everything together to combine evenly.
  5. Roast Shrimp and Broccoli Together: Return the baking dish to the oven and roast for an additional 8-10 minutes. Watch closely to avoid overcooking—the shrimp should turn pink and opaque but remain juicy and tender. Around 8 to 9 minutes is ideal, but ovens may vary.
  6. Combine and Finish: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Stir in the cooked pasta, the remaining olive oil, fresh chopped basil, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
  7. Serve with Feta: Crumble sharp feta cheese over the pasta mixture and serve warm immediately for a flavorful and healthy meal.

Notes

  • Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to maintain juiciness and tender texture.
  • You can substitute the pasta with gluten-free alternatives if desired.
  • Adjust the quantity of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
  • Fresh basil adds bright, herbal notes but can be replaced with parsley if preferred.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Fat