The Ultimate 20-Minute Shrimp and Vegetable Pasta Primavera
There is nothing quite like the sizzle of a hot pan meeting fresh, succulent jumbo shrimp and a vibrant medley of garden-fresh vegetables. This Shrimp and Vegetable Pasta Primavera is the personification of “eating the rainbow.” It’s a dish that feels incredibly gourmet and indulgent thanks to its velvety garlic butter sauce, yet it remains light enough for a healthy weeknight dinner that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.
Whether you are looking for a quick 30-minute meal or an impressive dish for a weekend dinner party, this recipe hits every mark. The combination of perfectly seared seafood, tender-crisp broccoli, and earthy cremini mushrooms tossed with silky noodles creates a symphony of textures that is simply irresistible.
Premium Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
To achieve that high-end restaurant quality at home, the selection of fresh, seasonal produce is paramount. Here is what you will need:
- Jumbo Shrimp (Peeled & Deveined): The primary protein source; provides a sweet, oceanic flavor and a firm texture.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Acts as a “flavor sponge,” soaking up the savory garlic butter sauce.
- Sliced Cremini Mushrooms: Adds a deep, umami richness and a “meaty” bite to the vegetable medley.
- Yellow Squash & Zucchini: Provides a delicate sweetness and vibrant color contrast.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Acidity is key; these burst during cooking to create a natural, bright glaze.
- Linguine or Fettuccine: The ideal long-cut pasta for carrying a light, oil-based or butter-based sauce.
- Fresh Garlic Cloves: The aromatic backbone of the dish, providing an unmistakable pungent depth.
- Unsalted Butter & Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A fat blend used for high-heat searing and creating a silky mouthfeel.
- Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Grated finely to add saltiness and help emulsify the sauce.
Step-by-Step Culinary Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta Foundation
Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente. Crucial Step: Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. This is the secret to a professional sauce.
2. Master the Shrimp Sear
Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Season with sea salt, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a large stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside to ensure they remain tender and juicy.
3. Sauté the Vibrant Vegetable Medley
In the same skillet, add a knob of butter. Toss in the broccoli, mushrooms, and squash. Sauté for 5-7 minutes. You are looking for a tender-crisp texture where the colors remain vivid. Add the cherry tomatoes in the final 2 minutes so they just begin to soften.
4. Emulsify the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until aromatic. Add a splash of white wine or vegetable stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up the flavorful browned bits. Add the pasta and shrimp back into the pan.
5. The Finishing Touch
Turn off the heat. Toss the mixture with fresh lemon juice, zest, and a generous handful of Parmesan cheese. If the pasta seems dry, slowly drizzle in your reserved pasta water while tossing until a glossy, light sauce coats every strand.
How to Serve and Pair
Present this Mediterranean-inspired pasta in warmed shallow bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of herbal freshness. For the ultimate dining experience, pair this dish with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay. A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for capturing every drop of the remaining sauce.