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When it comes to crafting a meal that is both light and packed with flavor, Zesty Lemon Butter Shrimp & Spinach Penne stands out as a perfect choice. This dish marries the succulent taste of shrimp with vibrant spinach and the zesty brightness of lemon, making it an ideal option for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests. Its simplicity and sophistication make it a go-to recipe for home cooks looking to elevate their culinary repertoire without spending hours in the kitchen.

Lemon Butter Shrimp and Spinach Penne

Discover the delightful Zesty Lemon Butter Shrimp & Spinach Penne, a perfect blend of succulent shrimp, vibrant spinach, and a bright lemon sauce that will elevate any meal. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy the balance of delicious flavors and health benefits, making it a must-try recipe for home cooks looking to impress without the fuss.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1/4 cup unsalted butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 2 lemons

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.

    Sauté the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

      Make the lemon butter sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt. Stir in the minced garlic and lemon zest, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

        Add the spinach: Toss the chopped spinach into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.

          Combine ingredients: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir to combine. Add the cooked penne to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water, and toss everything together. The sauce should evenly coat the pasta; if it looks dry, add a little more pasta water.

            Final touches: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until well incorporated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

              Serve: Plate the Lemon Butter Shrimp and Spinach Penne, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 30 min | 4 servings