Name: Shrimp and Kale Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 pound dry fusilli or other medium-size twisted or tube-shaped pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups frozen chopped kale, spinach, broccoli rabe, or other greens; 1/3 cup dry white wine; 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper; 1/4 cup basil pesto; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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This quick shrimp and kale pasta recipe is ready in 15 minutes! An easy weeknight dinner with lemon, pesto, and Parmesan that shrimp lovers adore.

When you’re short on time but craving something that tastes like a special occasion, this shrimp pasta recipe delivers. With just a few simple ingredients—like deveined shrimp, leafy greens, and a splash of white wine sauce—you can have dinner on the table in about 15 minutes.

This great recipe combines the comfort of a classic pasta dish with the freshness of kale (or spinach, broccoli rabe, or any greens you have on hand). The result is light but satisfying, perfect for a busy weeknight or even to serve to friends who love shrimp recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Pasta

Ready in less than 20 minutes—ideal for an easy weeknight dinner.
Made with wholesome, simple ingredients that are easy to find.
Flexible—swap in angel hair pasta, penne, or rotini depending on what’s in the pantry.
Balanced with both protein and leafy greens for a nutritious spin.
Bursting with flavor thanks to lemon zest, lemon juice, and optional red pepper flakes.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This easy recipe pairs beautifully with simple side dishes like garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad. It’s versatile enough to be a cozy easy weeknight dinner but elegant enough for entertaining.

Tips for Cooking Shrimp Perfectly

One of the biggest mistakes people make with shrimp recipes is overcooking the shrimp. Since shrimp cook so quickly, they only need a couple of minute in a hot pan over high heat. Lay the raw shrimp in a single layer in the skillet so they sear instead of steam. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they turn pink and slightly opaque on the bottom. Another minute or two on the second side is all it takes for juicy, tender results.

If you’d like to add more richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end to create a quick garlic butter sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat, while fresh herbs like parsley or basil brighten the dish with color and flavor.

Variations to Try

This shrimp pasta recipe is endlessly adaptable. For a creamy twist, add a splash of heavy cream to transform it into a lighter take on creamy shrimp pasta. Swap the fusilli for angel hair pasta if you want a more traditional garlic shrimp pasta vibe. If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, toss in halved grape tomatoes or sliced fresno peppers for sweetness and a pop of color.

For extra vegetables, stir in baby spinach or arugula right before serving—the warmth of the pasta will wilt the greens just enough. However you prepare it, this is the kind of easy recipe that feels like a restaurant-quality shrimp scampi but comes together with pantry staples and fresh shrimp in your own kitchen.

Dietitian’s Insight 💡
Adding kale or spinach here is a smart way to sneak in extra leafy greens without taking away from the flavor. Combined with protein-rich shrimp, this pasta balances indulgence and nutrition—something I love to share as The Baking Dietitian.

Hi, I’m Regan — a registered dietitian, professional recipe developer, and the creator of This Baking Life.

I bake with less sugar and smarter carbs in mind (though you’ll find plenty of full-sugar favorites here too!), so you can enjoy a real dessert without overthinking every bite.

If you make this recipe, tag me @ReganJonesRDN so I can see what you’re baking!