Pasta with Shrimp and Vegetables Recipe for Easy Dinner

There’s something magical about the combination of perfectly cooked pasta, succulent shrimp, and a rainbow of fresh vegetables, all tossed together in a light, flavorful sauce.

This Pasta with Shrimp and Vegetables recipe is one of those dishes that feels both comforting and sophisticated—a weeknight dinner that’s also worthy of a special occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or simply craving something wholesome and delicious, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Imagine twirling al dente pasta around your fork, spearing plump shrimp and vibrant veggies with each bite. The flavors burst with freshness, balanced with a kiss of garlic, a splash of white wine, and a hint of lemon.

Best of all, it comes together in under 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. In this post, I’ll walk you through every step, from prepping your ingredients to plating a meal that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this pasta with shrimp and vegetables recipe. For starters, it’s incredibly versatile: you can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.

The dish is nutrient-packed—shrimp provides lean protein, while the colorful veggies offer fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The light sauce lets every ingredient shine, without overpowering richness or heaviness.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing, this is it. You’ll love the way the flavors meld, the textures play off each other, and how effortlessly you can put this meal together.

“Fresh, fast, and full of flavor—this pasta with shrimp and vegetables is your new go-to recipe for any occasion.”

Ingredients

• Feel free to swap vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Microplane or small grater (for lemon zest and Parmesan)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs (optional, for tossing pasta)

Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients. Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if not already done.

   Slice the bell pepper, zucchini, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets.

   Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Gather your other ingredients to have everything ready.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

   Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer.

   Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using).

4. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
   

   Tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp! They should be just cooked through for the best texture.

5. Add another 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the minced garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
6. Add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are just tender but still vibrant.
7. Add the cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes, letting them soften slightly.
8. Deglaze the pan with white wine (or chicken broth). Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.

   Let the liquid simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes.

9. Add lemon zest and juice. Stir to combine, then taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
10. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with 1/4 cup reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated.

    If the mixture seems dry, add more pasta water as needed.

11. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Toss gently to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
12. Finish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges or parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Choose your pasta: Linguine, spaghetti, or penne all work beautifully. For a gluten-free version, substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Switch up the veggies: Try asparagus, snap peas, baby spinach, or mushrooms for different flavors and textures.
• Go dairy-free: Omit Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
• Want it spicy? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half right before adding the shrimp back to the pan for a luscious sauce.
• Boost the protein: Add scallops or chunks of salmon along with the shrimp for a seafood medley.

“Great recipes are all about customization—don’t hesitate to make this dish your own!”

Nutrition Facts

• Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on specific brands and substitutions.
• For a lower-carb version, use spiralized zucchini or another vegetable-based pasta.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta with shrimp and vegetables is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few choice sides for an even more memorable dinner. Serve with a simple green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette or a crusty loaf of artisan bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.

For a festive touch, pour a glass of your favorite dry white wine—the same one you used in the dish works perfectly. If you’re making this for a dinner party, consider starting with a light appetizer like these Allens Green Beans or follow up with a sweet treat, such as these Almond Cashew Clusters or the classic Almond Cake And Pastry Filling Recipes.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a recipe that’s as delicious as it is stunning, this pasta with shrimp and vegetables won’t disappoint. With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and satisfying textures, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again—whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself to something special.

Don’t be afraid to get creative: mix up your vegetables, play with the seasoning, or try a new pasta shape each time. Cooking should be fun and flexible, and this recipe offers just that.

I hope you enjoy every bite—and if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my other recipes like Bak Chor Mee Recipe: Authentic Singaporean Noodle Guide or Baja Chicken Tacos Cheesecake Factory Recipe Copycat Guacamole.

Happy cooking!