Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

A plate of lemon garlic shrimp pasta is like a warm hug from the ocean. Imagine tender shrimp dancing in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, glistening like jewels atop perfectly al dente pasta. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making even the most reluctant chef want to grab a fork and dig in.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience! Picture yourself at a cozy dinner party or a romantic evening date night where this delightful plate takes center stage. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you as they revel in the explosion of flavors.

I remember the first time I whipped up this dish for my friends; their delighted reactions made my kitchen feel like a five-star restaurant.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large, peeled shrimp for maximum flavor and tenderness while cooking.
• Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works best here; choose your favorite for that perfect twirl.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a fragrant touch that elevates this dish immensely.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Use fresh lemons for the brightest flavor; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it!
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and adds richness to the dish.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings freshness to balance the rich flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust according to your heat preference; they add a delightful kick!
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient’s natural flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cooking the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti or linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sautéing the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—about 30 seconds should do it.

Adding Flavor: Stir in fresh shrimp along with red pepper flakes. Cook until shrimp turns pink and opaque—this usually takes around 3-4 minutes.

Merging Ingredients: Pour in fresh lemon juice and zest while adding cooked pasta back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined—your kitchen will smell divine!

Finishing Touches: Season with salt and pepper to taste before stirring in chopped parsley for an added layer of freshness.

Serving It Up!: Plate your lemon garlic shrimp pasta with an extra sprinkle of parsley on top. Get ready for compliments!

This delightful lemon garlic shrimp pasta is not just delicious but also makes you feel like a culinary genius without spending hours slaving over the stove! Enjoy every bite while basking in your newfound cooking prowess!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta first, then sauté the shrimp while preparing the garlic and lemon sauce. This method ensures everything is hot and fresh when served.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Personalize it according to your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.

Cooking this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta always reminds me of hosting dinner parties where friends would rave about my culinary prowess, even when I was just following a simple recipe.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

What pasta pairs best with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Linguine or spaghetti works wonderfully, as they hold onto the sauce beautifully.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for an extra kick!

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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

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• Author: Rachel Simmons
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a zesty and satisfying dish that brings together succulent shrimp, garlic, and fresh lemon over perfectly cooked pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

• Fresh shrimp (peeled)
• Spaghetti or linguine
• Minced garlic
• Fresh lemon juice and zest
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh parsley
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water and cook spaghetti or linguine until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds, then add shrimp and red pepper flakes. Cook until shrimp turns pink (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add flavor: Mix in lemon juice and zest, then return the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine.
4. Final touches: Season with salt and pepper, stir in chopped parsley, and serve with an extra sprinkle of parsley on top.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: For added variety, substitute shrimp with chicken or incorporate vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Use fresh shrimp for optimal flavor; if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.