Shrimp and Spinach Lemon Penne

If you’re craving a bright, fresh, and satisfying pasta dish that comes together in a flash, look no further than this Shrimp and Spinach Lemon Penne. It perfectly balances succulent shrimp, vibrant spinach, and zesty lemon—all tossed with al dente penne in a luscious olive oil and garlic sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, this recipe is a winner that’s sure to impress.

Reasons to Love Shrimp and Spinach Lemon Penne

This dish has so many qualities that make it a go-to favorite:

• Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
• Fresh flavors: The lemon zest and juice add a bright, tangy punch that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Wholesome ingredients: With fresh spinach and lean shrimp, it’s a balanced meal that feels light but filling.
• Versatile: You can enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite herbs and spices.
• Minimal cleanup: Just a few pans, so you can spend less time washing and more time savoring.

If you adore pasta dishes with seafood, you might also want to check out this Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne for another flavor-packed option.

What’s in the Bowl

Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to make this delightful dish:

• 8 ounces penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the sauce and bits of spinach.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed from frozen, medium to large size works best.
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds color, nutrition, and a subtle earthiness.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: The base of the sauce, providing richness and depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with its aromatic, savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a fragrant citrus note that wakes up the palate.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh acidity.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: Optional but highly recommended for a salty, nutty finish.

Equipment at a Glance

Getting your tools ready will make this recipe a breeze:

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the shrimp and sauté the spinach with garlic.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Microplane or grater: For zesting the lemon.
• Measuring spoons: To get the lemon juice, olive oil, and seasoning just right.
• Tongs or pasta fork: For tossing the pasta with the sauce.

Shrimp and Spinach Lemon Penne, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Garlic and Spinach Magic

Lower the heat to medium, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the chopped spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Add the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice, stirring everything to combine. Toss in the drained penne pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and help everything coat evenly.

Step 5: Final Touches

Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for that irresistible savory finish.

For a creamier twist on a shrimp pasta, you might enjoy this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Penne recipe.

Adaptations for Special Diets

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Low-Carb: Swap penne for spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
• Extra Veggies: Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking makes them rubbery. Watch closely for the pink color and opaque texture.
• Skipping pasta water: The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta better, so don’t toss it out completely.
• Not seasoning adequately: Salt and pepper bring out the flavors—taste as you go!
• Using old garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference in flavor intensity.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This dish can be prepped in stages to save time on busy days. You can peel and devein the shrimp ahead of time, chop the spinach, and even zest and juice the lemon. Cook the pasta and shrimp separately, cool them, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, quickly sauté the garlic and spinach, then combine everything in your skillet to reheat and finish with lemon juice and zest. This method keeps the shrimp tender and the spinach fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely, pat them dry, and remove any excess water before cooking. This helps them sear nicely without steaming.

What kind of pasta works best with this dish?

Penne is ideal because its tube shape holds the sauce well, but you can also use rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic to introduce a gentle heat that complements the lemon and shrimp flavors.

Is it okay to substitute fresh spinach with frozen?

While fresh spinach is preferred for texture and flavor, you can use frozen spinach if necessary. Just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne – A buttery, garlicky pasta with succulent shrimp.
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Penne – Rich and luscious with a creamy sauce that clings to every bite.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp – A simple, zesty shrimp dish perfect for quick dinners.
• Spinach Pesto Pasta – A vibrant green pasta loaded with fresh spinach pesto.

Let’s Eat

Gather your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a plate of Shrimp and Spinach Lemon Penne that’s bursting with flavor, freshness, and just the right touch of tang. This dish strikes the perfect balance between comforting pasta and light, vibrant seafood, making it a staple to keep in your recipe rotation. Serve it with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Bon appétit!

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