Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach

If you love bright, garlicky pasta dishes that come together in under 30 minutes, this one is for you! This vibrant Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Pasta with Parmesan combines zesty citrus flavor, tender shrimp, and silky strands of pasta in a light, yet very satisfying, balanced dish. Packed with lean protein from the shrimp, heart-healthy fats from the olive oil, and nutrient-rich spinach, this meal tastes indulgent while nourishing your body. Every bite offers a boost of vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants that support immune, heart, and eye health, while calcium and protein from the grated Parmesan promote strong bones and satiety. This wholesome pasta strikes the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition in one bowl: quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough to impress guests.

Ingredients for shrimp:

• 1 pound shrimp, dried, peeled, and deveined

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt

Remaining ingredients:

• ½ pound spaghetti (choose whole grain for added fiber)

• 4-6 tablespoons of olive oil

• 6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced

• 3-4 cups fresh baby spinach

• 1 large lemon, zested and juiced

• ¼ cup chopped parsley

• ½ cup grated parmesan

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups reserved pasta water

Instructions:

1. Brine the shrimp by mixing the shrimp, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

2. Cook the pasta by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta for 1 minute before it is al dente. Drain but reserve 2 cups of pasta water.

3. To sauté shrimp, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Then, transfer to a plate and tent with foil.

4. In the same pan, add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden in color. Add spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until just wilted.

5. Add 1/2 cup of pasta water, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and nearly cooked pasta to the pan. Toss and mix well for 1-2 minutes until all noodles are fully coated. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, shrimp, and parsley, then mix well again.

6. Remove from the heat and sprinkle in the grated parmesan and toss until well combined. Add more pasta water little by little if needed.

7. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Jennifer Jimenez, Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas Dietetic Intern

Jennifer Jimenez is currently a dietetic intern at Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas and a graduate student at Texas Woman's University, pursuing her Master of Science in Nutrition. She is passionate about preventative nutrition and believes in the power of food to promote long-term health and well-being. Her professional interests include nutrition support, diabetes education, and advocating for equitable access to quality healthcare. She is committed to helping others make informed, sustainable choices that support both their health and lifestyle.