Mediterranean Diet Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, a healthy yet indulgent dish that fits seamlessly into the Mediterranean diet. Made with wholesome whole wheat spaghetti, tender shrimp, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, this recipe is elevated by the fresh, zesty brightness of lemon juice and zest, juicy cherry tomatoes, and nutrient-packed baby spinach. A sprinkling of Parmesan cheese and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes tie together the perfect balance of flavors. Quick and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes, this dish is a delightful combination of comfort and sophistication, perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining. Serve it with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a garnish of parsley for a restaurant-quality meal that’s brimming with heart-healthy ingredients.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 5

Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted.

Step 6

Return the shrimp to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and add the cooked pasta.

Step 7

Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss everything together to combine.

Step 8

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and give the pasta a final toss to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 9

Serve immediately, garnishing with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1024.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1341.1

Total Fat 61.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 23.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 939.3mg	0%
Sodium 3274.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 77.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.9g	0%
Total Sugars 6.9g
Protein 133.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 698.7mg	0%
Iron 7.8mg	0%
Potassium 2091.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 39.5%

Protein: 38.3%

Carbs: 22.2%