Shrimp And Broccoli Garlic Pasta

Name: Shrimp And Broccoli Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine or spaghetti; Salt for pasta water; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 6 cloves garlic, minced; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Ready-to-Go Meals

I absolutely love making Shrimp and Broccoli Garlic Pasta! It combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors to create a dish that’s not just quick to prepare, but also incredibly satisfying. The sweetness of the shrimp paired with the vibrant greens of broccoli, all tossed in a garlicky olive oil sauce, makes each bite delightful. Plus, it’s a hassle-free weeknight dinner that can be on the table in under 30 minutes while remaining gourmet enough for entertaining guests.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-28T04:05:35.189Z

When I first made this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly everything came together. The key was ensuring the shrimp were cooked just right — tender but not overdone — which I achieved by cooking them in the olive oil for only a few minutes until they turned pink. Using fresh garlic made a huge difference, imparting a rich flavor that complemented the pasta and broccoli beautifully.

The addition of lemon zest at the end was a game-changer, brightening the dish and adding an unexpected twist. It’s a simple trick that elevates the overall flavor profile, making this pasta dish standout while remaining effortlessly easy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp paired with vibrant broccoli for a nutritious boost
A garlicky olive oil sauce that brings everything together perfectly
Ready to serve in just 25 minutes — perfect for weeknights or special occasions

Cooking Pasta to Perfection

The pasta is the foundation of this dish, and cooking it to the right texture is crucial. When boiling the linguine or spaghetti, aim for al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite. This not only enhances the dish's overall texture but also helps it hold up well when mixed with the sauce. Timing can vary based on the type of pasta, but it's typically around 8-10 minutes. Be sure to taste it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time to check for doneness.

Additionally, reserving half a cup of pasta water is a key step that shouldn’t be overlooked. This starchy water helps to bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a cohesive and flavorful dish. If the final mixture seems too dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.

Perfecting the Shrimp and Broccoli

When sautéing the broccoli, aim for a tender-crisp texture which preserves its vibrant color and nutritional benefits. Just 3-4 minutes in a hot pan with olive oil should suffice. If you find the broccoli browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly. This technique not only enhances the flavor but also maintains its bright green color, making the dish visually appealing.

The moment you add the minced garlic to the broccoli, you should be ready for the incredible aroma that fills your kitchen. Remember to stir quickly to prevent the garlic from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste. The addition of shrimp should be timed right after the garlic becomes fragrant; this ensures that both are cooked just enough to become tender without overcooking, which can result in rubbery shrimp.

Ingredients

Pasta

12 oz linguine or spaghetti
Salt for pasta water

Shellfish & Vegetables

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
6 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon

Sauce

1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté the Broccoli

While the pasta cooks, bring a separate pan to medium heat and add 1/8 cup of olive oil. Once hot, add broccoli florets and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Add Garlic and Shrimp

To the broccoli, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta to the pan with the shrimp and broccoli. Pour in the reserved pasta water and remaining olive oil. Mix well and season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Toss everything together until well combined.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your Shrimp and Broccoli Garlic Pasta warm!

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender. Fresh lemon zest adds brightness, so don’t skip it!

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap out the shrimp for other proteins; chicken or even tofu are excellent alternatives if you're looking for variety or a different protein source. If using chicken, ensure to cook it thoroughly, adjusting the time accordingly to allow it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

For those seeking a vegetarian option, simply omit the shrimp and add more broccoli or other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. This not only enhances nutritional value but also allows for vibrant color variations that make the dish appealing.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prepare this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the pasta and broccoli separately and storing them in airtight containers. You can make the sauce fresh when ready to serve, which will keep the flavors vibrant. If prepared this way, I suggest tossing all the components together over medium heat just before serving, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to rehydrate the dish if necessary.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, but I recommend reheating gently on the stove with a bit of olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the pasta mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for broccoli?

You can use asparagus, spinach, or any green vegetable of your choice.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.