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Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

If you are looking for a bright, flavorful weeknight dinner that feels both fresh and satisfying, this Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Picture tender shrimp kissed with vibrant lemon and pepper, nestled alongside perfectly cooked broccoli and tender linguine, all brought together with garlic and a hint of butter. Each bite bursts with zesty citrus and a peppery kick, creating a dish that feels special but comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that impresses guests yet is simple enough to whip up on any busy evening.

Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple, fresh ingredients can combine to create something truly memorable. Each ingredient plays its own role, whether it’s adding texture, brightness, or depth to the dish.

  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti: Choose your favorite pasta to provide a comforting base that soaks up all the flavors.
  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, tender and quick cooking with an irresistible snap.
  • 2 cups broccoli florets: Add color, crunch, and a boost of healthy greens to the mix.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: A fruity base for sautéing shrimp, enhancing their natural richness.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings silky smoothness and richness to the sauce.
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced): Adds a fragrant, savory depth that complements lemon perfectly.
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Delivers bright citrus notes that lift the entire dish.
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Gives a fresh, mildly spicy kick that defines the “pepper” in the recipe.
  • ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, salty finish if you desire more richness.
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Offers a fresh herbal brightness and beautiful color contrast.

How to Make Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli Together

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions. To add a vibrant green crunch and keep meal preparation streamlined, toss in the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of pasta cooking. This way, the broccoli becomes tender but still crisp while soaking up the pasta water’s seasoning. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, but don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water—that starchy liquid will help bring the sauce to perfection later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season the shrimp with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. It’s best to avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each shrimp gets a beautiful sear. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside to rest.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium, then add the remaining butter to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about 60 seconds until fragrant and golden—be careful not to burn it as garlic can turn bitter. Next, stir in the fresh lemon zest and juice, allowing the bright citrus oils to mingle and lift the sauce. Add back the drained pasta and broccoli, tossing everything together to coat well in the buttery, garlicky lemon mix.

Step 4: Finish and Combine

Slowly add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, tossing continuously until you achieve a silky sauce that lovingly clings to the pasta strands and broccoli. This step is all about creating that perfect texture—neither dry nor too saucy. Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to incorporate them evenly. Your Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is now complete and ready to be plated.

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

One of the joys of this dish is how well it welcomes a few simple garnishes. Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for a touch of salty creaminess. A handful of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of bright green color but also fresh herbal notes that lightens each bite and complements the citrus elements beautifully.

Side Dishes

This pasta stands tall on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette can add texture and refresh the palate. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are also excellent if you want to sop up every last bit of that lemony garlic sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, try serving this pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the broccoli and shrimp. You might also toss in some toasted pine nuts for a subtle crunch or add a few thin lemon slices as a bright garnish to tie into the theme visually and flavor-wise. These small touches make sharing this dish feel even more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the shrimp and pasta from drying out.

Freezing

Because seafood can lose texture when frozen and reheated, freezing this dish is generally not recommended if you want the best flavor and consistency. If you must freeze it, consider freezing the pasta and broccoli separately from the shrimp to maintain quality and thaw gently in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to keep the shrimp tender and prevent the garlic from becoming overpowering. A careful, gentle reheat will bring this dish back to life beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works just fine. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely without steaming.

What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe?

Traditional linguine or spaghetti works wonderfully because their shape holds onto the sauce well. However, feel free to swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta according to your preference.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Sliced bell peppers, asparagus, or snap peas would all add wonderful flavor and texture alongside broccoli, making this dish even more vibrant and nutrient-packed.

How spicy is the Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe?

It has a gentle peppery kick from the black pepper, but it’s not overly spicy. If you love heat, adding red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic is a great way to turn up the warmth.

Is this recipe suitable for a pescatarian diet?

Yes, this dish fits perfectly into a pescatarian diet since it features shrimp as the protein and includes lots of fresh vegetables and pasta.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about a dish that tastes like it took hours but is actually so quick and easy to prepare. This Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe shines in that way—bright, satisfying, and simple. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a comforting crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your weeknight favorites.

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Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 30 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

A quick and delicious Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta combining tender shrimp, fresh broccoli, and zesty lemon flavors, all tossed in a buttery garlic sauce over linguine or spaghetti. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner with a touch of Italian inspiration.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
  • 2 cups broccoli florets

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Sauce and Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta. Drain both together, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
  2. Cook Shrimp: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and black pepper. Add shrimp to skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare Lemon Garlic Sauce: Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice.
  4. Toss Pasta and Shrimp: Add drained pasta and broccoli to skillet. Toss to coat evenly with the lemon garlic butter. Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time until sauce achieves a silky texture that clings to the pasta. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together thoroughly.
  5. Serve: Serve the pasta warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as an alternative for dietary preferences.
  • For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic in the sauce step.
  • Ensure shrimp is cooked just until opaque to avoid toughness.
  • Reserve pasta water carefully to create a smooth sauce without it becoming watery.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

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