If you are craving a vibrant, flavorful, and quick-to-make dinner, the Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish brings together succulent shrimp perfectly seasoned with zesty lemon and cracked black pepper, tender broccoli florets that add a fresh crunch, and al dente pasta that soaks up every bit of the fragrant, garlicky sauce. It’s an effortless way to elevate weeknight meals with bright, bold flavors and a comforting yet light finish that always feels special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe shines because of its simple, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role—from flavor foundation to texture contrast and visual appeal. Here’s exactly what will make your meal sing:
- 1 pound large shrimp (deveined): The star protein packed with flavor and quick to cook for a juicy bite every time.
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta: Long, flat noodles that hold onto the sauce beautifully and provide a satisfying chew.
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets: Adds vibrant green color and a delightfully crisp texture that balances the dish.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Bright citrus notes that awaken the palate and elevate the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- 3–4 cloves garlic (minced): Aromatic and flavorful, garlic forms the delicious savory base of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Smooth olive oil that helps sauté the shrimp and broccoli and enriches the entire dish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of heat to add a lively kick if you like your pasta with a little edge.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): Creamy, salty finishing touch that melts slightly on the warm pasta.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your linguine or fettuccine according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This ensures that the noodles will have just the right amount of firmness to complement the succulent shrimp and tender broccoli perfectly. Once done, drain and set aside so it’s ready to mingle with the flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil before adding the broccoli florets. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the heat to soften them slightly while retaining that gorgeous bright green color and a satisfying crunch. This step is crucial for adding freshness and texture contrast to the dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Cook the Shrimp
Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it. Then, add the shrimp, cooking each side about 3 to 4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. This quick cook keeps the shrimp juicy and tender, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
Step 4: Brighten with Lemon and Season
Once the shrimp are cooked through, stir in the fresh lemon zest and juice. This adds a zesty brightness that ties every ingredient together. If you love a little spice, sprinkle in some optional red pepper flakes along with salt and black pepper to taste, building layers of flavor before tossing in the pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp Mixture
Finally, add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together to coat the noodles in the luscious lemon pepper shrimp sauce evenly. This step ensures each bite bursts with flavor and every strand of pasta is perfectly dressed.
Step 6: Serve with Parmesan Cheese
Dish out the pasta piping hot and finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The savory, slightly nutty cheese melts into the warm pasta, creating a beautifully balanced bite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe even more enticing, consider adding a few fresh garnishes like chopped parsley for a pop of green or an extra lemon wedge on the side for those who love an added citrus punch. A drizzle of extra olive oil can also bring out a silky sheen on the pasta before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad, such as arugula tossed with a light vinaigrette, or some crusty garlic bread which perfectly soaks up every last drop of sauce. Simple roasted vegetables also complement the plate without competing with the bright lemon flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of flair, serve your Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls to create a more intimate dining experience. Garnishing with microgreens or edible flowers adds an elegant touch, making it ideal for a casual dinner party or a hearty family meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your fresh meal, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the pasta might soak up more liquid, so it may be a little denser when reheated.
Freezing
This Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh since shrimp and pasta don’t freeze equally well together. If needed, you can freeze cooked shrimp and broccoli separately, then toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently so the pasta heats evenly and shrimp remain tender without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the sautéing process and texture.
What type of pasta works best with this Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe?
Long, flat noodles like linguine or fettuccine are ideal because they hold the sauce well and create a nice balance with the bite-sized shrimp and broccoli.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The flavors will remain just as bright and delicious.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add red pepper flakes to give it a touch of heat if you enjoy spicy food.
How can I make this recipe more creamy?
If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese after adding the lemon juice and zest, mixing until smooth and heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is one of those special meals that never fails to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s fresh, bright, and comforting all at once—a perfect dish to share with friends or to treat yourself after a busy day. I hope you love every zesty, garlicky bite as much as I do. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed with fresh broccoli, garlic, and a zesty lemon pepper sauce. Tossed with perfectly cooked linguine or fettuccine, this quick and easy dinner is both healthy and satisfying, garnished with Parmesan cheese for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (deveined)
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3–4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine or fettuccine according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside for later.
- Sauté Broccoli: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Add Garlic and Shrimp: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add the shrimp, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque throughout.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the lemon zest and juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the shrimp and broccoli mixture to infuse the dish with bright and spicy notes.
- Combine Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly in the lemon pepper shrimp and broccoli sauce.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a savory and creamy finish.
Notes
- You can substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for different protein options.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes quantity to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor; bottled lemon juice won’t have the same effect.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or a few spoonfuls of mascarpone cheese when combining pasta.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
