This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach is the perfect mix of light, fresh, and satisfying. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, then tossed with pasta and baby spinach for a wholesome yet indulgent dinner.
Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is an easy way to enjoy restaurant-quality flavor at home. It’s packed with lean protein, fiber, and antioxidants — making it a go-to healthy dinner recipe for busy nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright, garlicky, and full of Mediterranean flavor
- Made with simple, healthy ingredients
- Ready in 25 minutes — perfect for weeknights
- Balanced with lean protein, greens, and whole grains
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
8 ounces spaghetti or linguine (whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred)
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cups baby spinach
¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Grated parmesan and fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the shrimp
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the garlic lemon sauce
In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir to combine.
4. Add spinach and pasta
Toss in baby spinach and cooked pasta, stirring until the spinach wilts. Add the shrimp back to the pan. Toss everything together to coat in the sauce.
5. Serve
Top with grated parmesan, parsley, and a pinch of chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Pro Tips & FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes — use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
What’s the best shrimp to use?
Fresh or frozen raw shrimp both work. Just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of olive oil or broth to keep it moist.
Flavor Variations
Creamy Version: Add a splash of light cream or coconut milk to the sauce.
Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Increase chili flakes or add cayenne pepper.
Extra Veggie Boost: Add cherry tomatoes or zucchini ribbons for color and nutrients.
Nutrition Summary
A light and nourishing pasta dinner with the perfect balance of garlic, lemon, shrimp, and greens — healthy comfort food made easy.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bowl | 420 | 28g | 42g | 14g | 4g | 3g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
