Red Mustard Greens and Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This vibrant pasta dish combines the peppery kick of red mustard greens with succulent garlic shrimp and al dente pasta, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The dish comes together quickly while offering restaurant-quality results.

Ingredients:

The Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• Salt and pepper to taste

The Pasta:

• 1 pound linguine or spaghetti

• 1 bunch red mustard greens, roughly chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: extra red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.

• Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.

• Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.

• Drain pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp:

• In a bowl, combine shrimp with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

• Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add shrimp and red pepper flakes.

• Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through.

• Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Greens:

• In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil.

• Add sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

• Add mustard greens and cook until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

• Season with salt and pepper.

4. Combine Everything:

• Return shrimp to the skillet.

• Add cooked pasta and butter.

• Pour in lemon juice and a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water.

• Toss everything together, adding more pasta water if needed for desired consistency.

• Add half the Parmesan cheese and toss to combine.

5. Finish and Serve:

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

• Divide into serving bowls.

• Top with remaining Parmesan cheese.

• Sprinkle with additional red pepper flakes if desired.

• Serve immediately while hot.