When it comes to quick, delicious, and nutritious meals, shrimp pasta is a great option. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this dish can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free, low-carb, or simply a flavorful meal, there’s a shrimp pasta recipe out there for you.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 healthy shrimp pasta recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body. From classic garlic butter and lemon-garlic combinations to creamier avocado and spicy tomato-based dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility of shrimp and pasta. We’ll also highlight the benefits of using whole grains, leafy greens, and other nutritious ingredients to create well-rounded meals.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Zucchini Noodles
Experience the simplicity and flavor of this seafood-inspired dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook zucchinis in a microwave-safe bowl for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
5. Toss cooked zucchinis with remaining garlic butter mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve shrimp on top of zucchini noodles, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Whole Wheat Pasta
Brighten up your dinner routine with this zesty and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and aromatic garlic with whole wheat pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add lemon juice and reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and indulgent dish that combines succulent shrimp, velvety avocado, and al dente pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, heavy cream, and reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Toss to coat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tomato Basil Shrimp Linguine
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the spiciness of red pepper flakes and the brightness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a light and tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine cooked linguine and sauce; toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Spinach Whole Grain Penne
This recipe combines the flavors of succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, and nutty whole grain penne for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup whole grain penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the whole grain penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Combine the cooked penne pasta with the shrimp and spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp with Quinoa Pasta
This recipe combines the brightness of cilantro and lime with the sweetness of shrimp and quinoa pasta, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 8 oz quinoa pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low and add sliced onion. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked quinoa pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Shrimp and Olive Orzo
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet flavorful dish, featuring succulent shrimp, briny olives, and nutty orzo. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in olives, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked orzo with the skillet mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Pesto Spaghetti Squash
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a warm bowl of pasta. Shrimp Pesto Spaghetti Squash is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional spaghetti, made with roasted squash instead of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. Meanwhile, cook the shrimp in a skillet with a little bit of olive oil over medium-high heat until pink and cooked through.
6. Combine the pesto sauce with the cooked shrimp and stir to combine.
7. Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the flesh into strands resembling spaghetti.
8. Toss the squash strands with the shrimp-pesto mixture and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Black Bean Pasta
This bold and flavorful pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning, all wrapped up in a rich black bean sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in black beans and simmer for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
6. Combine cooked pasta with shrimp and bean mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo with Whole Wheat Fettuccine
This creamy pasta dish combines succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and a rich alfredo sauce served over whole wheat fettuccine for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and broccoli; cook until pink and tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, flour, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine and sauce mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Shrimp Soba Noodles
A flavorful and nutritious Asian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with nutty soba noodles, creamy peanut sauce, and crunchy vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat peanut oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey. Pour into the skillet with vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve noodles topped with the Thai peanut shrimp mixture and garnished with chopped peanuts and scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Mushroom Garlic Spaghetti
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. If using white wine and chicken broth, add to skillet and simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and mushroom-shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Light Coconut Curry Shrimp Noodles
A flavorful and light take on traditional curry noodles, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with a creamy coconut sauce, all wrapped up in a bed of springy noodles. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups cooked noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and curry powder. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Combine noodles with the curry sauce and shrimp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Asparagus Lemon Pasta
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and refreshing shrimp and asparagus pasta dish, infused with the zesty tang of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Meanwhile, steam asparagus spears in a steamer basket until tender.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and asparagus. Toss with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Shrimp with Chickpea Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp, the tanginess of tomato sauce, and the earthiness of chickpeas with a hint of basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup chickpea pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chickpea pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and shrimp. Toss to combine and serve hot. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Shrimp and Kale Pesto Farfalle
This Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with the nutty flavor of kale pesto, all wrapped up in farfalle pasta. A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) farfalle pasta
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups (40g) fresh kale leaves
– 1/4 cup (60g) pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine kale, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Toss cooked farfalle with shrimp, kale pesto, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp with Lentil Pasta
This flavorful and nutritious dish combines succulent shrimp with the hearty goodness of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup cooked lentil pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook lentil pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Sun-Dried Tomato Whole Grain Rotini
This recipe combines the flavors of succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce with whole grain rotini pasta for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz whole grain rotini pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, white wine (if using), tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Toss to coat. Top with Parmesan cheese and parsley (if desired).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouthwatering and nutritious shrimp pasta recipes that will elevate your mealtime game! From classic combinations like Garlic Butter Shrimp Zucchini Noodles to bold flavors like Spicy Tomato Basil Shrimp Linguine, there’s something for everyone. These healthy twists feature whole grains, vegetables, and lean protein sources, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy avocado, zesty lemon, or savory Mediterranean flavors, these shrimp pasta recipes will satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
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