Lemon Garlic Shrimp Avocado Power Pasta

Get ready for a flavor explosion that keeps you full and energized. This lemon‑garlic shrimp pasta power bowl marries the bright zing of citrus with creamy avocado, all tossed in a light, protein‑rich sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's ready in under half an hour!

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole‑wheat spaghetti
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• ½ teaspoon red‑pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. 1. Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat.
3. 3. Add the minced garlic and red‑pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. 4. Toss in the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2‑3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
5. 5. In the same skillet, add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to deglaze and create a light sauce.
6. 6. Return the shrimp to the skillet, add the cooked spaghetti, diced avocado, and basil; gently toss to combine, making sure the avocado remains creamy.
7. 7. Drizzle with a little more olive oil if desired, adjust seasoning, and sprinkle with Parmesan for added protein boost.
8. 8. Plate the bowl, garnish with extra basil and a lemon wedge, then serve immediately.

Chef's Note

For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted almond or pine nut slivers before serving. Keep the avocado diced just before serving to maintain freshness.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish tastes best fresh. But you can prep the pasta and shrimp ahead of time and store separately in the fridge; assemble just before eating.

Substitutions

Swap whole‑wheat spaghetti for zucchini noodles for a low‑carb version, use tilapia or scallops instead of shrimp, or replace avocado with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy touch.