Craving a meal that’s light, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes? Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your answer! This dish combines tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a bright, garlicky lemon sauce for a delightful dinner that’s as comforting as it is elegant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
- Fresh & Vibrant: The lemon-garlic combo brings a burst of freshness.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a hit every time.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce:
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking the pasta)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and pasta water. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Whisk in butter, season with salt and pepper, and let the sauce thicken slightly.
4. Combine & Serve
- Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- With Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple green salad.
- Add Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish beautifully.
Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Pasta
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon and parsley for maximum flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery—keep an eye on the cooking time.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
Why It’s a Winner
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta strikes the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness. It’s versatile enough for a casual dinner or a date night at home. With its zesty lemon tang, savory garlic aroma, and tender shrimp, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
