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- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 3 cups fresh spinach - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper, to taste

Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Pasta

Indulge in the rich flavors of Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Pasta! This easy-to-make dish features tender shrimp, vibrant spinach, and a luscious garlic cream sauce enveloping your favorite pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it offers a delightful combination of taste and nutrition. With customizable options and simple ingredients, it's a must-try recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy restaurant-quality dining right at home!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

      Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent it from burning and to release its fragrant aroma.

        Incorporate Cream and Spinach: Carefully pour in the heavy cream and stir to blend it with the garlic. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken. Add the roughly chopped spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted.

          Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Add the drained pasta and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss everything together gently, adding the reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce reaches your desired thickness and creaminess.

            Finish with Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and zest, incorporating all the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

              Serve: Divide the creamy garlic shrimp and spinach pasta among serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a delightful finishing touch.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 25 mins | 4 servings

                  Presentation Tips: Serve each portion in a shallow bowl, arranging the pasta elegantly and topping it with a sprinkle of extra parsley and Parmesan for an appealing look. A lemon wedge on the side can add a bright contrast to the dish.