Garlic Shrimp Primavera

Garlic Shrimp Primavera is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a medley of fresh vegetables and pasta. This entree is perfect for those seeking a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish and explore its versatility.

The Recipe:

Garlic Shrimp Primavera

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz whole wheat pasta
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and broccoli, cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Add cooked pasta, spinach, and a splash of pasta water. Toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil.

Detailed Preparation:

• To make the best Garlic Shrimp Primavera, start by ensuring your shrimp are properly thawed and patted dry. This helps them sear nicely without releasing excess water. When cooking the garlic, be careful not to burn it as this can impart a bitter taste.

• The key to a great primavera is cooking the vegetables just right. Add the broccoli first as it takes longer to cook, followed by the tomatoes. The spinach should be added last as it wilts quickly.

• For the pasta, cooking it al dente is crucial as it will continue to cook slightly when added to the skillet. The reserved pasta water is your secret weapon for creating a silky sauce that clings to the pasta and shrimp.

Variations:

• Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for different protein options.
• Use zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a low-carb version.
• Add bell peppers, asparagus, or peas for extra vegetables.
• Try different pasta shapes like penne or farfalle for texture variety.

Time-Saving Tips:

• Use pre-peeled and deveined shrimp.
• Opt for pre-cut vegetables.
• Prepare the garlic and vegetables while the pasta cooks.
• Make a larger batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch.

The Side Dishes:

Steamed Broccoli and Carrots:

• Steam broccoli florets and baby carrots for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.

Whole Wheat Pasta with Spinach:

• Toss cooked whole wheat pasta with sautéed spinach, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Mandarin Orange Slices:

• Simply peel and segment fresh mandarin oranges, or use canned mandarin oranges for convenience.

Equipment & Ingredients:

On Amazon, you can purchase most of the following equipment and ingredients to make your own version of Garlic Shrimp Primavera.

Equipment:

• Stainless Steel Skillet
• Pasta Pot with Strainer Insert
• Microplane Zester/Grater
• Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Seafood Scissors
• Herb Scissors
• Meal Prep Containers

Ingredients:

• Quality Olive Oil
• Pasta
• White Wine

By having these tools and ingredients on hand, you’ll be well-equipped to create this delicious Garlic Shrimp Primavera and many other fantastic meals in your kitchen.