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Healthy Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta with Lemon Recipe

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4.2 from 56 reviews

This Healthy Shrimp & Broccoli Pasta with Lemon is a vibrant and nutritious meal that combines perfectly roasted broccoli and tender shrimp with zesty lemon juice, fresh basil, and sharp feta cheese. The dish features fusilli pasta tossed in olive oil, making it a wholesome and flavorful dinner option that’s quick to prepare and loved by all.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta & Vegetables

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

Shrimp & Seasonings

  • 1 pound shrimp, thawed, peeled, and tails removed
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Other

  • 1/4 cup olive oil (divided)
  • 1 large handful fresh basil, chopped
  • Approx. 5 ounces (150 grams) sharp feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Boil Pasta: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil, then cook the fusilli pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Roast Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in a large baking dish and drizzle with half of the olive oil (about 2 tablespoons). Toss well to coat the broccoli evenly, then roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, allowing the florets to become tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. Add Shrimp and Flavorings: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Add the peeled shrimp, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the dish with the broccoli. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and return the dish to the oven.
  4. Roast Shrimp and Broccoli Together: Continue roasting for another 8 to 10 minutes, taking care not to overcook the shrimp. The shrimp should turn pink, become opaque, and remain juicy without becoming rubbery. Approximately 8 to 9 minutes typically works well, but oven times may vary.
  5. Combine Pasta and Finish: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Add the cooked pasta, the remaining olive oil, chopped fresh basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything thoroughly to combine and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Add Feta and Serve: Crumble the sharp feta cheese on top of the pasta mixture and serve warm for a delicious and complete meal.

Notes

  • Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; it should be pink and opaque but still juicy.
  • You can substitute fusilli with other pasta shapes like penne or spaghetti if desired.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of heat.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit the feta cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Fat