Lemon Garlic Shrimp Protein Pasta

Ingredients

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Protein Pasta

• 20 ounces cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
• 8 ounces Barilla Protein+ spaghetti, dry weight
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the Barilla Protein+ spaghetti according to package directions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are heated through.
6. Add the spinach and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, until wilted.
7. Add the cooked pasta, lemon juice, and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water to the skillet.
8. Toss everything together. Add additional pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
9. Sprinkle in the Parmesan and toss until the pasta is lightly coated and glossy.
10. Divide evenly between four servings, making sure each serving gets approximately 5 ounces cooked shrimp.

Freezer Storage

1. Allow the pasta and shrimp to cool completely.
2. Divide into individual freezer-safe containers.
3. Freeze for up to 2 months.
4. For best results, slightly undercook the pasta before freezing so it does not become too soft when reheated.

Reheating Instructions

1. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when possible.
2. Add 1 tablespoon water or chicken broth before reheating.
3. Microwave for 1 1/2 minutes, stir, then continue in 30-second intervals until heated through.
4. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon if desired.

40/400 Notes

• Shrimp gives a strong protein return for the calories, leaving room for a satisfying pasta portion.
• Lemon, garlic, Parmesan, and pasta water create a light sauce without heavy cream.