13 Shrimp Pasta Recipes For When You Want Something Light But Satisfying

Shrimp pasta is the perfect solution when you’re craving a meal that’s both light and satisfying, offering a refreshing break from heavier dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful dish to impress guests, shrimp pasta can deliver a satisfying combination of tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant, zesty flavors. With a variety of sauces, seasonings, and ingredients, this dish can be as simple or as complex as you like, all while remaining light and delicious.

In this collection of 13 shrimp pasta recipes, you’ll discover a diverse range of options to suit your mood and dietary preferences. From creamy garlic butter sauces to fresh, tangy lemon and herb variations, there’s something here for every taste. The beauty of shrimp pasta lies in its versatility; it can easily be adapted to be gluten-free, dairy-free, or packed with extra veggies depending on your needs. And best of all, these dishes are quick to prepare, making them a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, yet uncomplicated meal.

These recipes combine the rich, natural sweetness of shrimp with the comforting texture of pasta, resulting in a dish that’s both light enough to enjoy on a warm evening and satisfying enough to leave you feeling fully nourished. Whether you prefer a simple pasta aglio e olio or a more sophisticated seafood pasta with a white wine sauce, these recipes will inspire you to create meals that are both healthy and indulgent.

So, get ready to dive into these delightful shrimp pasta dishes—each one a perfect balance of lightness and satisfaction that will leave you feeling satisfied but never weighed down.

Spicy Shrimp and Tomato Spaghetti

Spicy Shrimp and Tomato Spaghetti is a delightful dish that perfectly balances heat and flavor. Each bite brings a burst of juicy tomatoes paired with tender shrimp, all wrapped in perfectly cooked spaghetti. This recipe is not only satisfying but also quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party.

The combination of spices adds a kick to the dish, elevating the simple ingredients into a tasty meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your spice tolerance, so everyone can enjoy it just the way they like!

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
Combine: Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve: Plate the spaghetti, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your spicy shrimp and tomato meal!

Pesto Shrimp Penne

Pesto Shrimp Penne is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of basil pesto and the succulent flavors of shrimp. This simple recipe is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. The creamy, herby pesto perfectly complements the tender shrimp, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Not only is this dish easy to whip up, but it also requires minimal ingredients and cooking time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a quick lunch. With its vibrant colors and delicious combination of textures, Pesto Shrimp Penne is sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup basil pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
Combine: Add the cooked penne and pesto to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Cook for another minute to heat through.
Serve: Plate the pasta, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your meal!

Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlicky goodness, and tender zucchini noodles creates a meal that feels indulgent while still being healthy. It’s quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner.

The flavors in this dish are vibrant and satisfying, thanks to the fresh lemon juice and a hint of herbs. If you’re looking for a meal that won’t weigh you down but will still leave you feeling full and happy, this is it!

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 medium zucchini, spiralized
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Stir in the zucchini noodles and lemon juice, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the noodles are slightly tender.
Remove from heat and toss in the fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This garlic butter shrimp pasta is a simple and delightful dish that’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. The combination of succulent shrimp tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with al dente spaghetti, creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Quick to prepare, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels fancy without the fuss.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic butter and shrimp. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of reserved pasta water. Squeeze in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy while hot!

Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo Salad

This Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. With plump shrimp, tender orzo, and fresh vegetables, it’s both light and satisfying. It’s an easy dish to whip up, perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.

The combination of juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese adds a refreshing touch, while the herbs bring everything together beautifully. This salad is not only healthy but also colorful, making it a feast for the eyes as well. Enjoy this dish warm or cold, and it’s sure to become a go-to recipe!

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Orzo: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sautéed shrimp, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle with lemon juice and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve: Enjoy the salad warm or chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing cold dish.

Lemon Basil Shrimp Linguine

This Lemon Basil Shrimp Linguine is a refreshing dish that perfectly balances the lightness of shrimp with the bright flavors of lemon and fresh basil. The combination creates a delightful flavor profile that feels both comforting and invigorating, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal without the heaviness.

This recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a delicious plate of pasta that brings a taste of summer to your table.

Ingredients

8 oz linguine
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 lemon, zested
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Linguine: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, cooking until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet along with lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped basil. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Serve: Plate the linguine and shrimp, garnishing with additional basil and Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your light and satisfying dish!

Creamy Avocado Shrimp Fettuccine

Indulge in a bowl of creamy avocado shrimp fettuccine that’s packed with flavor and light on the stomach. This dish combines the richness of avocados with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked fettuccine, making it not just satisfying but also fresh and vibrant. It’s simple to whip up, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home without the fuss.

The creaminess from the avocado blends beautifully with the shrimp, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet healthy. Plus, you can have it ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine
1 ripe avocado
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Avocado Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour the avocado sauce over the pasta and toss until well-coated.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and halved cherry tomatoes before serving.

Coconut Curry Shrimp Pasta

Coconut Curry Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of coconut milk and curry with tender shrimp and al dente pasta. The creamy sauce, infused with aromatic spices, creates a comforting yet refreshing meal. This recipe is not only satisfying but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The combination of shrimp, pasta, and a touch of lime brings a bright twist to traditional pasta dishes. It’s light enough to feel good about, yet hearty enough to leave you feeling satisfied. Plus, you can have it on the table in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk
2 tablespoons red curry paste
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add shrimp and sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in coconut milk and red curry paste, mixing until fully combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped green onions before serving.

Shrimp Alfredo with Cauliflower Pasta

This Shrimp Alfredo with Cauliflower Pasta is a delightful twist on the classic dish. It brings together the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce and succulent shrimp, all while keeping things light and satisfying. Using cauliflower pasta instead of traditional noodles adds a nutritious element without sacrificing flavor.

This recipe is straightforward and perfect for a weeknight dinner. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it a go-to for busy evenings. The combination of shrimp and a creamy sauce is sure to please both you and your guests!

Ingredients

8 oz cauliflower pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Cauliflower Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Make the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine: Add the cooked cauliflower pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your light yet satisfying Shrimp Alfredo!

Shrimp and Pea Risotto

Shrimp and Pea Risotto is a delightful dish that combines creamy Arborio rice with tender shrimp and sweet peas. This recipe is not only light but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion. The fresh flavors come together in a way that feels both comforting and elegant.

Making this risotto is straightforward, requiring just a bit of patience as you stir and allow the rice to absorb the broth. The end result is a rich, creamy dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to something special!

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Heat the broth in a saucepan and keep it warm on low heat.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for about 2 minutes until it’s lightly toasted.
If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer until absorbed.
Add one ladle of warm broth to the rice, stirring continuously until it absorbs. Repeat this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
In the last few minutes of cooking, add the shrimp and peas. Stir until the shrimp are cooked through and the peas are heated.
Remove from heat, stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tomato and Shrimp Capellini

This Tomato and Shrimp Capellini is a delightful dish that combines fresh shrimp with sweet, ripe tomatoes, delivering a light yet satisfying meal. The tender capellini pasta is coated in a light sauce, bursting with flavor from the tomatoes and seasoned to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is easy to whip up, making it ideal for any occasion.

The bright flavors of the tomatoes combined with the succulent shrimp create a refreshing, wholesome dish that doesn’t weigh you down. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread to scoop up the delicious sauce, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

8 oz capellini pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the capellini and cook for about 3-4 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.
Combine: Add the cooked capellini to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy your light and flavorful dish!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Farfalle

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Farfalle is a bright and zesty dish that perfectly balances the flavors of fresh shrimp and aromatic garlic with a splash of lemon. This pasta recipe is not only light but also incredibly satisfying, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

What sets this dish apart is its simplicity; it comes together in just about 30 minutes! The tender farfalle pasta pairs beautifully with the succulent shrimp, all coated in a delightful lemon-garlic sauce that bursts with flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this vibrant meal.

Ingredients

8 ounces farfalle pasta
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the farfalle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant. Add shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Combine: Add the cooked farfalle to the skillet, along with lemon juice and zest. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and additional lemon slices if desired. Enjoy your refreshing dish!

Chili Lime Shrimp Spaghetti

Chili Lime Shrimp Spaghetti is a bright and zesty dish that combines the freshness of lime with the subtle heat of chili. This recipe features juicy shrimp tossed with al dente spaghetti, creating a perfect balance of flavors that’s both satisfying and light. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that comes together in no time!

The tangy lime juice and spicy chili flakes elevate the shrimp, while fresh herbs add a burst of color and flavor. Simple to make, this recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Juice of 2 limes
Zest of 1 lime
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional: lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Shrimp: Toss in the shrimp and sprinkle with chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine: Stir in lime juice and zest, then add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, if desired. Enjoy your vibrant Chili Lime Shrimp Spaghetti!

Final Thoughts
Shrimp pasta is a go-to meal when you’re craving something quick, light, and full of flavor. With these 13 recipes, you have endless possibilities to choose from, ensuring that you’ll never run out of new, exciting dishes to try. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a casual dinner party, these shrimp pasta recipes are guaranteed to satisfy your appetite and make your meal feel special without the heavy load. Happy cooking!