Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

This recipe is a true winner for several reasons:

1- Quick and Easy: You can have this meal on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

2- Bursting with Flavor: The bright lemon, rich garlic, and succulent shrimp create a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist.

3- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

4- Light and Refreshing: Unlike heavier pasta dishes, this one feels light yet satisfying, perfect for any season.

Ingredients List

•  8 oz (225g) of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
•  1 lb (450g) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
•  3 tablespoons of olive oil
•  4 cloves of garlic, minced
•  1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
•  Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
•  1/4 cup (60ml) of white wine or chicken broth
•  Salt and pepper to taste
•  Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
•  Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Timing

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the lemon zest and juice, followed by the white wine or chicken broth. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4- Combine: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy.

Tips for Perfectly Cooking Shrimp for Your Pasta

 1- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.

 2- Seasoning: Season the shrimp before cooking for added flavor. A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper works wonders.

 3- High Heat: Cooking shrimp over high heat ensures a nice sear, adding to the overall flavor of the dish.

Variations to Try with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

 1- Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrients and color.

 2- Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche for a richer sauce.

 3- Swap the Protein: Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken if you prefer.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

 Storing: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

 Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

 1- Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.

 2- Bread: Pair with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up the sauce.

 3- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complement the dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

 1- Overcooking the Shrimp: This is the most common mistake. Keep an eye on the shrimp and remove them from the heat as soon as they’re done.

 2- Not Using Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a big difference in flavor compared to bottled juice.

 3- Skipping the Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce, making it silky and smooth.

Health Benefits of Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients:

 1- Shrimp: A great source of lean protein, shrimp is low in calories and high in essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12.

 2- Garlic: Known for its immune boosting properties, garlic adds flavor while also benefiting your health.

 3- Lemon: Rich in vitamin C, lemons are great for your immune system and add a zesty kick to the dish.

 4- Olive Oil: A heart healthy fat, olive oil adds richness to the pasta without weighing it down.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings)

•  Calories: 400
•  Protein: 28g
•  Fat: 14g
•  Carbohydrates: 42g
•  Fiber: 3g
•  Sugar: 2g

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. The bright, zesty flavors combined with tender shrimp and al dente pasta make every bite a treat. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen just as it has in mine.