Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This shrimp, vegetable, and pasta recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a fantastic homemade cooking solution, packed with flavor and easy enough for even the busiest weeknights. This recipe is a showcase of the best recipes, blending the simplicity of easy recipes with the delightful tastes of delicious dishes. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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 vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened. Stir in the broccoli and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
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Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. If using, add the white wine at this point and let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly. This adds a lovely depth of flavor.
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Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus.
- Different pasta: Use your favorite pasta shape – penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta would work well.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Protein boost: Add some cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This shrimp, vegetable, and pasta recipe is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. It's a great way to enjoy healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. The ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for those looking for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. This is one of those delicious dishes that will quickly become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy!