Angel Hair Pasta With Shrimp And Spinach

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Shrimp And Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cups fresh spinach; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making Angel Hair Pasta with Shrimp and Spinach for a quick yet elegant meal. The delicate strands of angel hair effortlessly soak up the flavors, while the juicy shrimp bring a satisfying protein punch. To me, the combination of garlic, spinach, and a hint of lemon transforms a simple pasta dish into something truly special. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a surprise for friends, this dish is always a hit. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings!

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T08:02:38.045Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to create something quick that didn’t skimp on flavor. Using angel hair pasta makes a significant difference as it cooks faster than other pasta varieties. The key tip I found was to sauté the shrimp and spinach together with garlic until they are just tender, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully. This method ensures that each bite is packed with taste!

As I prepared this dish, I realized how versatile it can be. Sometimes, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra cheesy finish. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability, allowing me to switch things up based on what I have on hand. It's become a staple in our home, loved by everyone!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights.
Fresh, vibrant flavors that come together beautifully.
Light yet satisfying, making it a great meal option.

The Role of Garlic and Lemon

Garlic is a key player in this dish, as it not only adds depth of flavor but also contributes to the overall aroma that fills your kitchen. When sautéing the garlic, aim for a slightly golden color to release its natural oils; this usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Be cautious not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart bitterness to the entire dish. Instead of using pre-minced garlic, fresh garlic cloves provide a more vibrant and pungent flavor that elevates the overall taste.

Lemon juice and zest bring brightness to this creamy pasta dish, balancing the richness of the olive oil and the shrimp. For the best flavor, use a fresh lemon, as bottled lemon juice lacks the same lively profile. When zesting, be careful to capture only the yellow outer layer—zesting the white pith can add unwanted bitterness. Adding the juice after cooking the shrimp helps preserve its fresh flavor without losing its punch.

Getting the Perfect Texture

Cooking the angel hair pasta to the right doneness is crucial in achieving the perfect texture. Aiming for 'al dente' ensures it retains a slight bite and doesn’t become mushy when combined with the sauce and shrimp. To assess doneness, taste a strand from the pot a minute before the package's time is up. Draining the pasta immediately and tossing it with a bit of olive oil helps prevent sticking while you finish the rest of the dish.

When sautéing the shrimp, it's essential not to overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, cook them in batches to keep the temperature consistent. Shrimp cook quickly; they should turn pink and opaque within 2-3 minutes on medium heat. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep a close watch! Once cooked, they should be just firm to the touch and have a slight sheen.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for an exquisite meal:

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups fresh spinach
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything at hand before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Shrimp and Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the shrimp, cooking until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in the fresh spinach and sauté until just wilted.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with shrimp and spinach. Pour in the lemon juice and zest. Toss everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your homemade angel hair pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in lemon juice and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve your angel hair pasta in shallow bowls, allowing the colorful shrimp and spinach to stand out. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory element that complements the dish's flavors beautifully. To heighten the meal, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, which can elevate the seafood notes in the dish.

You can also incorporate additional vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, for added color and nutrition. Simply sauté them along with the garlic for a few extra minutes before adding the shrimp. This not only enhances the visual appeal but introduces different textures, making each bite more satisfying.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This shrimp pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare it ahead of time, consider cooking the pasta and shrimp separately. You can store the cooked pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the pasta, ensuring it doesn't overheat and turn gummy.

The fresh spinach should ideally be sautéed right before serving to maintain its vibrant color and texture. If you want to make this dish ahead, prepare the shrimp and garlic mixture but hold off on combining it with the pasta until serving time. This approach keeps everything fresh and flavorful, making it perfect for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for spinach?

Kale or arugula works well as a substitute.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta in place of angel hair.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers and cherry tomatoes are great additions.