Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a dish that packs a punch of flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of succulent shrimp, a rich garlic butter sauce, and the bright citrusy kick from lemon creates a harmonious and satisfying meal.

The pasta serves as the perfect base, soaking up the delicious sauce and bringing all the ingredients together. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Packed with protein and full of vibrant flavors, this lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible meal!

Ingredients

8 ounces linguine or spaghetti pasta

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

Zest of 1 lemon

1/4 cup unsalted butter

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Cook the Pasta:

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine or spaghetti until al dente (about 9-11 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use. Set the pasta aside.

Sauté the Shrimp:

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute, until fragrant and golden. Be sure not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. If desired, add the red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Add the Wine and Lemon Juice:

Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. This adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Once the wine has reduced slightly, add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring to combine.

Finish the Sauce:

Lower the heat and add the butter to the skillet, stirring constantly until the butter has melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic lemon sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add more pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle the fresh parsley over the pasta and give it one last toss. Serve the lemon garlic shrimp pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired) for added richness. Enjoy this flavorful, satisfying meal with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Chef’s Note

Pasta Options: Linguine and spaghetti are great options, but feel free to use your favorite pasta type, such as fettuccine or penne.

Wine Substitution: If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth works as a great substitute for a similar depth of flavor.

Shrimp Variations: For a twist, you can use scallops or other shellfish in place of shrimp.

Add Veggies: To make the dish more balanced, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added color and nutrients.

Spicy Option: If you enjoy spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, 1/4 of Recipe)

Calories: 380

Protein: 28g

Carbohydrates: 36g

Fat: 18g

Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 550mg

Cholesterol: 180mg

Conclusion

Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a light yet flavorful dish that delivers on both taste and nutrition. The tender shrimp paired with the citrusy, garlicky sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors that will have you coming back for more. With its quick cooking time and simple ingredients, it’s the ideal dish for busy weeknights, date nights, or whenever you’re craving a satisfying pasta meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the burst of fresh flavors in every bite!