Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Lemon Shrimp Pasta, a dish that combines succulent shrimp with a tangy lemon sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.
This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and garlic brings a refreshing zest to the dish.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with your choice of pasta or added vegetables.
Light yet Satisfying: A perfect balance of protein and carbs without being heavy.
Elegant Presentation: Impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal at home.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined.
Pasta: Spaghetti, linguine, or your preferred type.
Lemon: Juice and zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Garlic: Minced, to add depth to the sauce.
Olive Oil: For sautéing and flavor.
Butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
Parsley: Freshly chopped for garnish.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Prep Ingredients: Have all ingredients ready before cooking for a seamless process.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook just until pink to keep them tender.
Reserve Pasta Water: Use it to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh juice and zest provide the best flavor.
Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley and extra lemon zest enhance presentation and taste.
How to Make Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink.
Step 3: Add Lemon
Stir in lemon juice and zest, cooking for another minute.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp.
Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and additional lemon zest.
Serve immediately.
What to Serve It With
Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the pasta.
Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Wine: Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Variations / Substitutions
Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use Different Protein: Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Not Freezer-Friendly: Best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may alter the texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti or linguine are traditional choices, but any pasta will work.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance to save time.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently, but you can add red pepper flakes to increase the heat.
Can I add cheese?
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch, though it’s optional.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon?
Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh lemon provides the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Shrimp Pasta is a delightful blend of zesty lemon and savory shrimp, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying.
Its quick preparation and elegant presentation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
