Description
Welcome to our delicious Healthy Shrimp Pasta Recipe! Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a healthy pasta option, this dish is a great choice for a balanced and flavorful meal. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, and a creamy yet light sauce for a perfect dinner. Read on to discover how to create this wholesome shrimp pasta at home!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces of shrimp, tails removed
- 8 ounces of pasta (Linguine recommended)
- 3 cups of fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 5 ounces of light cream cheese
- 1/4 cup crisp white wine (Masi Masianco Pinot Grigio & Verduzzo recommended)
- 3/4 cup shrimp or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup light cream
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Liberal dashes of salt and pepper
- Lemon zest, for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- For dairy-free options: Replace cream cheese and cream with coconut milk.
- For gluten-free options: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Vegetarian version: Swap shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is a healthy alternative.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In a medium-sized 3-quart pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until soft, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and chopped yellow pepper. Cook until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the wine, broth, and light cream.
- Add cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5-6 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
- In a separate small pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-4 minutes or until they turn pink and are fully cooked.
- Transfer the cooked shrimp into the cream sauce.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Combine
- Add the spinach to the same small pan used for the shrimp.
- Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until just wilted.
- Toss the wilted spinach into the cream sauce along with the shrimp.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta and Serve
- Pour the creamy shrimp and spinach sauce over the cooked pasta.
- Garnish with grated parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and spinach elevate the flavor and nutritional value.
- Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add more broth; if it’s too thin, let it simmer longer.
- Cooking Time for Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking will make them rubbery.