Pasta Shrimp and Vegetable Recipes for Quick Healthy Me

There’s something truly special about the combination of succulent shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in perfect harmony.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, pasta with shrimp and vegetables is a versatile recipe that fits the bill. The best part?

It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, easy to customize, and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into this delicious, colorful, and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a step-by-step recipe to create a flavorful pasta dish that balances the sweetness of shrimp with the earthiness of fresh vegetables. Plus, I’ll share tips and variations to tailor it to your taste, nutrition facts, and serving ideas that elevate this simple yet elegant dish.

Ready to get cooking? Let’s go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta shrimp and vegetable recipe is a perfect blend of convenience, nutrition, and taste. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you still want a homemade meal.

The shrimp add a delicious source of lean protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins, fiber, and a pop of color.

The creamy sauce ties everything together without being too heavy, and you can easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works well for family dinners or casual entertaining.

If you love seafood and pasta, this dish delivers on all fronts!

If you’re interested in more pasta inspiration, check out our Cheese Pasta Cheesecake Factory Recipe for a rich, cheesy alternative.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander (to drain pasta)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Grater (for Parmesan cheese)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Add spinach and deglaze: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted. Pour in the white wine (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce for 2 minutes.
5. Create the sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
6. Combine pasta and shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
7. Finish with lemon and seasoning: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips & Variations

“For the freshest flavor, use wild-caught shrimp when possible. If shrimp isn’t your favorite, chicken or scallops make excellent alternatives in this recipe.”

Tip 1: To save time, use pre-cooked shrimp but add them at the very end just to warm through to avoid overcooking.

Tip 2: Swap out vegetables based on seasonality or preference. Asparagus tips, snap peas, or mushrooms also work beautifully here.

Variation: For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt (add yogurt off the heat to prevent curdling). If you want a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika.

For a dairy-free or vegan version, omit shrimp and use sautéed tofu or tempeh instead. Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Curious about other seafood pasta dishes? Try our Applebees Shrimp Parmesan Steak Recipe for another fantastic seafood pasta experience.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This pasta shrimp and vegetable dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple Caesar salad for a bit of crunch. Add a side of crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia to soak up any extra sauce.

For a festive dinner, serve with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements seafood beautifully. A light sparkling water with lemon slices also works well for a non-alcoholic option.

If you want to explore more comfort food, try pairing this with our Bahamian Macaroni And Cheese Recipe: A Tasty Delight for a rich and creamy side that balances the freshness of the pasta dish.

Conclusion

This pasta shrimp and vegetable recipe is a fantastic addition to any home cook’s repertoire. It’s a wholesome, flavorful meal that can be whipped up quickly without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

The combination of tender shrimp, colorful vegetables, and creamy sauce over perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or protein options to make it your own.

Thanks for joining me in the kitchen, and if you’re in the mood for more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our Baiao De Dois Recipe: A Taste of Brazilian Comfort for something uniquely satisfying.