Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that won't keep you chained to the stove all evening? Then look no further! This pasta broccoli shrimp recipe is your answer. It’s a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that are surprisingly easy to make. It's packed with flavor, nutrients, and best of all, it's ready in under 30 minutes! This homemade cooking masterpiece is perfect for busy weeknights and impresses even the most discerning palates. Let's dive into this simple, yet incredibly satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or your favorite pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Broccoli and Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking and stir to combine.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
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Deglaze the Pan (Optional): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. If omitting wine, proceed to the next step.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and broccoli. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to combine. Add a little pasta water if needed to create a creamy sauce.
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Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips for the Best Pasta Broccoli Shrimp:
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and shrimp will make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, red pepper flakes, or lemon juice to your liking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Creamy Shrimp Pasta: Stir in a 1/4 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Increase the amount of lemon juice and garlic for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This pasta broccoli shrimp recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious weeknight meal the whole family will enjoy. It’s a perfect example of easy recipes and delicious dishes that are both satisfying and good for you. Enjoy!