One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Fresh Asparagus & Sugar Snap Peas: Your Ultimate Spring Meal

Are you a fan of effortless, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful one-pan dishes? Then prepare to be delighted by this exquisite recipe for Pasta with Sugar Snap Peas, Asparagus, and Shrimp. It’s the quintessential combination of convenience, minimal cleanup, and a generous medley of vibrant spring vegetables, all coming together in a single pan for a truly unforgettable meal.

Imagine crafting a hearty, fresh, and deeply satisfying dish that captures the essence of spring with just one pan and a handful of quality ingredients. This recipe delivers exactly that. The delightful crunch of sugar snap peas, the tender elegance of fresh asparagus, and the succulent sweetness of juicy shrimp are perfectly complemented by creamy penne pasta, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes you won’t want to miss. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something nutritious, quick, and bursting with flavor.

Embrace the Flavors of Spring: Pasta with Shrimp, Feta, and Fresh Vegetables

This remarkable one-pan dish of Pasta with Sugar Snap Peas, Asparagus, and Shrimp is truly defined by its fresh, invigorating spring flavors. The subtle, crisp sweetness of the sugar snap peas, the delicate and refined asparagus, the comforting creaminess of the pasta, and the salty tang of feta cheese create a truly delicious symphony of tastes. Each bite is further elevated by the sweet, firm texture of perfectly cooked shrimp. Adding a fragrant, savory kick, the lightly fried garlic oil forms the aromatic foundation, tying all these wonderful components together.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is its incredible speed: it can be on your table in under 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s genuinely a breeze to prepare. With just a single pan, minimal chopping, and a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients, you can conjure up this delightful and easy meal in virtually no time. Perfect for those evenings when you want something gourmet without the fuss, this dish proves that healthy and delicious cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.

The One-Pan Advantage: Effortless Cooking, Maximum Flavor

One-pan meals are a lifesaver for anyone with a busy schedule, and this shrimp pasta recipe is a shining example. The magic of cooking everything in a single vessel means not only less washing up, but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. As the pasta cooks alongside the vegetables and shrimp, it absorbs all the wonderful aromatic notes from the garlic oil, lemon juice, and the natural sweetness released by the spring produce. This method ensures that every component of your dish is infused with a cohesive and deeply satisfying flavor profile, making for a richer and more enjoyable eating experience.

Beyond the convenience, the one-pan approach simplifies the entire cooking process. No need for multiple pots boiling or pans frying simultaneously. Everything happens sequentially, allowing you to focus on the simple steps and enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen. This straightforward technique makes it an ideal recipe for beginner cooks looking to create an impressive meal, or for seasoned chefs seeking a quick and delicious weeknight option.

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Pasta with Sugar Snap Peas, Asparagus and Shrimp

Andréa

Ingredient Insights & Smart Swaps for Your One-Pan Pasta

This recipe shines with its fresh spring ingredients, but it’s also wonderfully adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand. Here’s a closer look at the key components and how you can customize them:

Choosing the Right Shrimp (Gamba’s)

For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh prawns or gambas if available. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce. Remember to devein the shrimp for a better eating experience. The key is not to overcook them; shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left on the heat for too long. Their natural sweetness is a highlight of this dish, so treat them with care!

Picking Your Pasta: More Than Just Penne

While penne pasta is specified in the recipe, its robust shape is perfect for holding the light sauce and pairing with the chunky vegetables and shrimp. However, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes. Fusilli, farfalle (bow-tie pasta), or even tagliatelle could work wonderfully. The most crucial tip for any pasta is to cook it al dente, meaning it’s still firm to the bite. This prevents it from becoming mushy and ensures a pleasant texture in your final dish.

Vegetable Variations for Extra Color and Flavor

The combination of asparagus and sugar snap peas offers a delightful crunch and sweetness that truly sings of spring. However, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Don’t hesitate to add or substitute other vegetables based on your taste or seasonality. Consider incorporating:

• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes can add a burst of juicy sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
• Zucchini: Thinly sliced or diced zucchini blends seamlessly, adding a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Sliced red or yellow bell peppers bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant hue.
• Spinach or Arugula: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula at the very end for an extra nutritional boost and a peppery kick.

Herb Alternatives to Fresh Parsley

Fresh parsley provides a bright, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the dish. If you’re looking to change things up or simply don’t have parsley, consider these fragrant alternatives:

• Fresh Basil: Offers a sweet, peppery aroma that complements Italian flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Mint: For a surprisingly refreshing twist, particularly lovely with lemon and spring vegetables.
• Fresh Dill: Pairs exceptionally well with both seafood and lemon, adding a delicate, tangy freshness.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your One-Pan Pasta

Achieving a restaurant-quality meal at home is all about the details. Here are a few expert tips to ensure your One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overcook the Garlic: The initial sauté of garlic in olive oil is crucial for building the dish’s flavor base. Fry it briefly, just until fragrant and lightly golden, then remove it. This prevents it from burning and turning bitter, ensuring that sweet, aromatic garlic essence is preserved.
• Al Dente Pasta is Key: As mentioned, cooking your pasta slightly less than the package directions (about 5 minutes for penne in this recipe) is essential. It will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot vegetables and sauce, resulting in that perfect al dente texture.
• Pasta Water is Liquid Gold: Always reserve some pasta cooking water! This starchy water is your secret weapon for creating a silky, emulsified sauce that coats every strand of pasta beautifully. It helps bind the sauce to the pasta and adds a touch of richness.
• Fresh Lemon Juice Makes a Difference: While bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, fresh lemon juice provides a much brighter, more vibrant flavor that truly elevates the dish. Don’t skip it!
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dish before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. A final pinch of salt, a crack of fresh black pepper, or an extra squeeze of lemon juice can make all the difference.

Serving Suggestions to Complete Your Meal

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a complete meal on its own, packed with protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. However, if you wish to round out your dining experience, consider pairing it with:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover delicious sauce.
• A Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a lovely contrast to the pasta’s richness.
• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio would complement the fresh flavors beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers

This pasta dish is undeniably at its best when enjoyed fresh, straight from the pan. The ingredients, especially the vegetables and shrimp, retain their optimal texture and flavor. The feta cheese, in particular, contributes a fresh, salty crumble that is ideal when served immediately.

• Refrigerator: Should you have any leftovers, ensure they are cooled completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The fresh vegetables will maintain their texture best within this timeframe.
• Reheating: When reheating, be mindful that the feta cheese will likely melt, integrating into the sauce and changing the dish’s appearance and texture slightly. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave on a medium setting, stirring occasionally, or heat on the stovetop over low heat. For stovetop reheating, add one to two tablespoons of water or chicken broth to help loosen the pasta and prevent it from drying out, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. Avoid high heat, as it can make the shrimp tough.
• Enjoying Cold: An often-overlooked option is to enjoy this pasta cold as a delightful pasta salad! The flavors meld beautifully, making it a perfect light lunch or side dish. Just give it a good stir before serving.
• Freezer (Not Recommended for Best Quality): While technically possible, freezing this dish is generally not recommended for optimal quality, particularly due to the delicate texture of the shrimp and fresh vegetables. They can become somewhat mushy upon thawing and reheating. If you must freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thawed state with added liquid as described above, but be prepared for a noticeable change in texture.

This one-pan pasta with shrimp, asparagus, and sugar snap peas is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients and the joy of effortless home cooking. We hope you enjoy bringing a taste of spring to your table!

More Pasta Inspiration

If you loved this easy one-pan pasta, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other delicious pasta recipes. Here are a few more to add to your repertoire: