30
Dec

Healthy Shrimp Pasta: Light, Flavorful, and Gut-Friendly

Looking for a pasta dish that’s healthy, satisfying, and quick? This shrimp pasta hits all the right notes: lean protein, fiber, anti-inflammatory veggies, and gut-loving herbs—without the heavy cream or excess oil.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 8 oz whole-grain or legume-based pasta (chickpea, lentil, or brown rice pasta for extra fiber)
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (supports gut and detox pathways)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for metabolism boost)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: Grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta
     Boil pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  • Sauté Shrimp
     Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  • Cook Vegetables
     In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  • Add Greens
     Stir in spinach or kale until just wilted.
  • Combine Pasta and Shrimp
     Add cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Pour in lemon juice, zest, and a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Toss until everything is well coated.
  • Finish with Fresh Herbs
     Turn off heat and sprinkle parsley (and optional Parmesan or nutritional yeast) on top. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
  • Serve Immediately
     Enjoy warm with a side of leafy greens or a light salad for a complete, nutrient-dense meal.

Why This Shrimp Pasta Is Healthy

  • Shrimp: Lean protein rich in omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health.
  • Whole-grain/legume pasta: Provides fiber for gut health, stabilizes blood sugar, and supports healthy microbiome diversity.
  • Garlic & Onions: Prebiotic compounds feed good gut bacteria and support detox pathways.
  • Leafy Greens & Tomatoes: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich, and hormone-supportive.
  • Olive Oil & Lemon: Healthy fats and vitamin C for digestion, detoxification, and nutrient absorption.

✨ Pro Tip: For an extra gut-healing boost, sprinkle 1 tsp of chia seeds or hemp seeds on top for added fiber, omega-3s, and plant protein.