Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce that ties everything together. This dish is both refreshing and satisfying, with the perfect balance of citrusy brightness and savory garlic flavor. It’s easy to make and comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.
With the addition of fresh herbs and a touch of red pepper flakes for a mild heat, this pasta is bursting with flavor and sure to please anyone who loves a fresh, vibrant seafood dish.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.
- Add Lemon and Cream: Stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by the heavy cream if you want a creamier sauce. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine the Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve: Divide the pasta between plates and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious and flavorful meal.
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is bright, zesty, and full of fresh flavors, with the richness of the shrimp and the creamy sauce adding just the right touch of indulgence. It’s an easy, elegant dish that will impress anyone at the dinner table.
