Description
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful combination of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and tender shrimp, all coming together in a dish that feels both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
8 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Stir in the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the shrimp, stirring to coat evenly.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the cooked pasta, butter, and reserved pasta water. Stir everything together until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Toss in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Leftover Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a little extra olive oil or a splash of water to help loosen up the sauce.
If you like it spicy, add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
Frozen shrimp can be used, just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
For a lighter dish, you can skip the butter and use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
