Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Veggies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers a delightful balance of heat, zest, and creaminess that will excite your taste buds. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining guests. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right kick, while the lemon juice brings a refreshing brightness to the dish. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for a wholesome, colorful meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp, peeled and deveined
pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well)
olive oil
garlic, minced
bell peppers (any color), sliced
zucchini, sliced
cherry tomatoes, halved
lemon juice and zest
Cajun seasoning
heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for a creamy version)
salt and pepper to taste
fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
grated Parmesan (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet, season with Cajun seasoning, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Cook until vegetables are just tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Add the cooked pasta and mix until well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan, if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Creamy Version: Add more heavy cream and a touch of cream cheese for an extra creamy sauce.
• Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit shrimp and use mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based twist.
• Grilled Shrimp: Grill the shrimp separately for added smokiness and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. If the pasta looks dry, add a splash of water, broth, or cream to revive the sauce.

FAQs

How spicy is Cajun Shrimp Pasta?

The spice level can be easily adjusted by the amount of Cajun seasoning used. Use a mild blend or reduce the quantity for a less spicy version.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Fettuccine, linguine, penne, or any sturdy pasta that holds sauce well will work great.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely. Omit the cream and cheese, and use a splash of pasta water or a non-dairy milk alternative for a creamy texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free pasta variety.

What vegetables can I substitute?

You can use broccoli, asparagus, spinach, or snap peas as substitutes or additions to the listed veggies.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keep an eye on them.

Can I add chicken or sausage?

Yes, sliced grilled chicken or cooked sausage pairs well with the Cajun flavors and can make the dish heartier.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the veggies and shrimp ahead to save time. Reheat gently before serving.

Do I need to use lemon zest?

Lemon zest adds an extra layer of citrus flavor but can be omitted if you prefer a milder lemon taste.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Veggies is a zesty, hearty, and colorful meal that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. It’s a perfect recipe for busy nights or when you’re craving something a little spicy and fresh. Whether you’re keeping it light or making it creamy, this pasta dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Veggies

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This Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Veggies is a zesty, vibrant dish combining tender shrimp, sautéed vegetables, and pasta tossed in a bold lemon-Cajun sauce. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Cajun
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp, season with Cajun seasoning, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, then sauté garlic for about 30 seconds.
5. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are just tender.
6. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together.
8. Add cooked pasta and mix until well combined.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

• Use grilled shrimp for a smoky flavor twist.
• Add cayenne for extra heat.
• Use non-dairy cream and cheese to make it dairy-free.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Make ahead by prepping shrimp and veggies in advance.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 180mg