Chilli shrimp and rocket spaghetti

Chilli shrimp and rocket spaghetti combines succulent shrimp with peppery arugula and nutty Parmesan for a delicious pasta dish. This quick recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, showcasing bold flavours and simple preparation.

11 Jan 2026
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta
1/4 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp chili powder
12 oz shrimps
2 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt
4 cups arugula
1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Chilli shrimp and rocket spaghetti is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the delicate flavors of shrimp with the peppery bite of arugula and the nuttiness of parmesan. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Follow these steps to create a flavorful pasta dish that will impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Garlic and Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.

3. Add the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Sprinkle the chili powder over the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Season the Shrimp:
- Add the lemon juice and salt to the shrimp. Stir well to combine.

5. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the garlic and oil mixture.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach the desired consistency.

6. Add Arugula:
- Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the arugula, allowing it to wilt slightly from the residual heat of the pasta and shrimp.

7. Serve:
- Divide the pasta among serving plates.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each serving.

8. Garnish (optional):
- Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and additional lemon juice or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Your Chilli Shrimp and Rocket Spaghetti is now ready to be enjoyed. The combination of tender shrimp, spicy chili, fresh arugula, and savory parmesan makes for a delightful meal that everyone will love. Serve it hot and watch it disappear from the plates in no time.

Chilli shrimp and rocket spaghetti FAQ:

How long does this dish take to prepare?

Chilli shrimp and rocket spaghetti can be prepared in about 30 minutes. This includes cooking the pasta and sautéing the shrimp.

What should I look for to know the shrimp are fully cooked?

The shrimp are fully cooked when they turn pink and form a 'C' shape. They typically take about 3-4 minutes to cook in the skillet.

Can I substitute another type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, linguine, or gluten-free alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

What can I use instead of arugula?

If you don't have arugula, you can substitute it with fresh spinach or kale. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for the different greens.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve a good sear.

- Do not overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque but still tender.

- Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.

- Toss the pasta with the arugula just before serving to keep the greens fresh and vibrant.

- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the chili powder.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 370kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 2.62g
Sugar 2.11g
Fat 22g

Chilli shrimp and rocket spaghetti