Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Scallop Pasta with Veggies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 5 ounces spaghetti (approx. 140 grams); 1/2 pound shrimp, thawed, tails and shells removed; 1/2 pound scallops, thawed; 1/4 cup olive oil (divided); 3-5 cloves garlic, minced (depending on size); 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes; 2 cups baby spinach; 1/2 a lemon, juice and zest; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, or more as desired; Salt and pepper, to taste; Freshly grated parmesan (preferably Parmigiano Reggiano), for serving

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 14 reviews

There is something truly magical about the flavors dancing together in this Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Scallop Pasta with Veggies Recipe. Imagine perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed with juicy shrimp and tender scallops, all brightened with fresh lemon zest and garlic, then complimented by sweet cherry tomatoes and vibrant baby spinach. This dish is a celebration of freshness and simplicity that comes together in under 40 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal or special dinner to impress your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves is placed next to uncooked yellow spaghetti strands on a white marbled background. To the right, there is a white bowl containing raw shrimp with a slight gray tint. Below the spaghetti, a white plate holds several raw scallops, cream-colored and round with smooth texture. Nearby, a small brown bowl contains a bright yellow lemon, and next to it, a white pouring jug holds a light golden liquid, likely olive oil. At the bottom right, a white bowl is filled with shiny red and yellow cherry tomatoes. On the left side, three cloves of peeled garlic rest on a small beige bowl, while another small bowl holds red chili flakes. A chunk of pale yellow cheese sits on a white dish below. The entire setup is arranged on a white marbled surface, showing each ingredient clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but essential to creating an explosion of flavors and vibrant colors on your plate. Each element plays a crucial role in balancing richness, acidity, and freshness in the Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Scallop Pasta with Veggies Recipe.

5 ounces spaghetti: The perfect base to soak up all the delightful flavors and juices.
1/2 pound shrimp: Provides tender, slightly sweet seafood goodness that cooks quickly.
1/2 pound scallops: Adds a delicate yet savory texture and pairs beautifully with shrimp.
1/4 cup olive oil (divided): Infuses richness and helps caramelize garlic and seafood.
3-5 cloves garlic, minced: The fragrant heart that elevates every bite with its aromatic punch.
1.5 cups cherry tomatoes: They burst with sweetness and bring vibrant color to the dish.
2 cups baby spinach: Adds freshness, vibrant green color, and a tender bite.
1/2 a lemon, juice + zest: Brightens the entire pasta with tangy citrus notes.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Provides just a hint of heat to balance out the flavors.
Salt + pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all ingredients together.
Optional: freshly grated parmesan: A nutty, salty topping that adds a luxurious finish.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Scallop Pasta with Veggies Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Seafood and Ingredients

Start by thawing your shrimp and scallops if frozen, carefully removing any tails or shells, then pat them dry to ensure a nice sear later. Mince the garlic finely so it infuses the oil perfectly and zest the lemon before squeezing out the juice — this keeps all those bright citrus oils intact to use in the pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente. When done, drain it, but hold off on rinsing so the pasta keeps its starchiness to cling to the sauce.

Step 3: Sear the Scallops

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the scallops gently and sear them for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re opaque and develop a golden crust. Remove and set aside on a clean plate to prevent overcooking.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Using the same pan, toss in the shrimp and cook for just 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking locks in their juicy flavor. Set the shrimp aside with the scallops, ready for the final assembly.

Step 5: Sauté the Veggies

Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and gently cook the minced garlic for about 2 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning. Then stir in the cherry tomatoes and let them cook for about 5 minutes so their juices burst and mingle with the garlic oil. Finally, toss in the baby spinach and cook just until wilted, about 2 minutes – this ensures they stay bright and tender.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Turn off the heat and add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and scallops back to the pan with the veggies. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest along with red pepper flakes, then drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper, and toss everything together until it’s evenly coated. Take a moment here to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve this vibrant Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Scallop Pasta with Veggies Recipe straight from the pan, optionally showered with freshly grated parmesan. Each forkful offers a harmonious mix of succulent seafood, zesty lemon brightness, sweet tomatoes, and tender greens — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Scallop Pasta with Veggies Recipe

A white pan filled with three main layers: the bottom layer holds green spinach leaves and some small red cherry tomatoes, the middle layer is a nest of thin yellow spaghetti noodles, and the top layer consists of large, cooked shrimp with a light pink color and seared scallops that are golden brown on the edges. The pan sits on a stove with black burners. The image is clear and bright, showing detailed textures of the shrimp and scallops, and the noodles look soft and lightly seasoned. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and add extra layers of flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, a dusting of grated parmesan, or even some toasted pine nuts for crunch. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds a silky finish that guests will adore.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables are also a wonderful complement, especially if you want to amp up the veggie factor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, present the pasta in a large serving bowl garnished with colorful lemon slices and additional herbs. Alternatively, plate individual portions on warmed shallow dishes so the pasta stays hot and inviting. Using edible flowers or microgreens offers a gourmet touch that instantly impresses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which can be rare because it’s so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The seafood and veggies will keep well for up to 2 days, and the flavors often meld even more overnight.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing isn’t recommended because the delicate seafood and fresh spinach can lose their texture. However, you can freeze cooked pasta separately if needed, but avoid freezing the full combined dish.

Reheating

When reheating leftovers, use a gentle approach. Warm the pasta gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of olive oil or a little water to prevent it from drying out. Avoid the microwave when possible to keep the seafood tender and prevent overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is recommended for its ability to hold the sauce nicely, feel free to swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What if I’m allergic to shellfish? Can I make this recipe without shrimp and scallops?

You can replace seafood with sautéed chicken breast or mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor profile. The lemon garlic sauce and veggies still provide a vibrant, delicious dish.

How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warming kick, not overwhelming heat. You can easily adjust the quantity or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

This pasta holds up well for next-day meals if stored properly. Just keep the sauce and pasta together to maintain flavor, but remember seafood can become rubbery if reheated too often.

Can I add cream or cheese to make it richer?

Yes! Adding a splash of cream or tossing in extra parmesan cheese can transform this into a more indulgent dish, though the original recipe shines due to its bright and fresh qualities.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Scallop Pasta with Veggies Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a special occasion but is so easy to whip up on any night of the week. The balance of vibrant lemon, garlicky goodness, and tender seafood with fresh veggies will make it a new favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!

“`