Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful, zesty dish that strikes the perfect balance between rich flavors and light, fresh ingredients. The shrimp, seasoned with aromatic garlic and zesty lemon, is tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a luscious buttery sauce, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. The vibrant citrus notes combined with the savory garlic create a mouthwatering experience that will have you coming back for more.
This pasta dish is quick and easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a dinner party. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces pasta (such as linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining, and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and butter, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Serve: Divide the pasta and shrimp among serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a deliciously light yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The shrimp’s natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the bright, tangy lemon and savory garlic sauce, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels elegant but is so easy to make at home.
