Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Flavorful and Simple Dish

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a winner! This dish bursts with flavor and is easy to make. In just a few steps, you can elevate your dinner routine. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into the fresh ingredients and simple instructions that make this dish a favorite!

Ingredients

Detailed Ingredients List

Here’s what you need for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta:

– 8 oz linguine pasta

– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

These ingredients create a bright, fresh dish with bold flavors. The shrimp adds protein, while the garlic and lemon elevate the taste.

Optional Ingredients

You can try these for a twist:

– Cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.

– Spinach or arugula for added greens.

– Capers for a briny kick.

– Whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Feel free to mix and match based on your tastes.

Nutritional Information

This dish serves about four people. Each serving has:

– Calories: Approximately 450

– Protein: 30g

– Carbohydrates: 50g

– Fat: 15g

The shrimp packs a protein punch, while the pasta provides energy. Using olive oil adds healthy fats. You can adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs.

For the full recipe, check the recipe section. Enjoy making this simple, flavorful dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. This adds flavor to the pasta. Once the water boils, add 8 ounces of linguine. Cook it for about 8 to 10 minutes until it is al dente. Before you drain the pasta, save about 1 cup of the starchy water. Drain the pasta and place it back in the pot. Keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

Sautéing the Garlic

In a large skillet, pour in 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add 4 cloves of finely minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture for about 1 minute. You want the garlic fragrant but not brown. Burnt garlic can make the dish taste bitter, so watch it closely.

Cooking and Seasoning the Shrimp

Now, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the shrimp. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Carefully add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the shrimp. Next, pour in the juice and zest of 1 large lemon. Toss everything together gently. Make sure the pasta is coated in the flavorful oil and juices. If it looks too dry, stir in some reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Finishing Touches

Fold in 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh parsley for a fresh taste. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper, if needed. If you love cheese, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to add creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Plate the pasta in generous portions. To make it look nice, garnish with extra chopped parsley and lemon slices. A drizzle of olive oil on top gives it a lovely shine. Enjoy this delicious meal! You can find the full recipe [here](#).

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfectly Cook Shrimp

To cook shrimp just right, start with fresh or thawed shrimp. They should be pink and firm. Heat oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Don’t crowd them; this helps them cook evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque. If overcooked, shrimp become rubbery.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the flavor, try adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme. A splash of white wine can add depth. For a tangy twist, toss in capers or sun-dried tomatoes. If you love spice, increase the red pepper flakes. A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the dish and adds freshness.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. You can also freeze it, but the shrimp may lose some texture. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight. Always check for freshness before eating leftovers.

For a complete guide, check the Full Recipe for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta.

Variations

Substituting Pasta Types

You can change the pasta you use for this dish. Try penne or spaghetti instead of linguine. These options will still taste great with the lemon and shrimp. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta work too. Each type brings a unique texture to the meal.

Adding Vegetables

Adding vegetables boosts flavor and nutrition. You can toss in fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes. Broccoli or bell peppers also work well. Sauté them with the garlic for a tasty mix. This way, you add crunch and color to your dish.

Alternative Protein Options

If you don’t want shrimp, other proteins can fit. Scallops or chicken are great alternatives. You can use tofu for a plant-based option. Each protein will soak up the lemon and garlic flavors. Adjust cooking times for the protein you choose.

Full Recipe

Recipe Summary

Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a bright and tasty dish. It blends shrimp with lemon and garlic flavors. The pasta absorbs all the wonderful tastes. This dish is quick and easy to make. You can whip it up in just 20 minutes. Each bite bursts with freshness and zest.

Cooking Time and Servings

The total cooking time is about 20 minutes. Prep takes 10 minutes, and cooking takes another 10 minutes. This recipe serves four people. It’s perfect for a dinner with family or friends.

Additional Resources

For a visual guide, check out video links that show how to make this dish. Watching someone cook can help you learn tips and tricks. Also, explore links to related recipes like garlic butter noodles or shrimp tacos. Enjoy cooking and trying new flavors!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. This will help them come to room temperature. Then, peel and devein if needed. Using frozen shrimp is a great time-saver.

Is this dish spicy?

The dish has a mild heat from red pepper flakes. You can adjust the spice level to fit your taste. If you want more heat, add more red pepper flakes. If you prefer it milder, reduce or omit them.

How can I make it gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, swap the linguine for gluten-free pasta. There are many options, like rice or quinoa pasta. Just ensure you follow the cooking time on the package. This keeps the dish tasty and safe for gluten-free diets.

What to serve with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. A side of roasted vegetables also complements the dish. These sides add freshness and balance to the meal.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and shrimp separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, combine them in a skillet and reheat gently. This keeps the flavors fresh and bright. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.

This blog post shared a simple guide to making Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to cook shrimp perfectly and enhance flavors. We also covered variations to suit your tastes.

Remember, cooking becomes easier with practice. Keep experimenting and enjoying your meals. Happy cooking!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Delight your taste buds with this easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and perfectly cooked linguine. Learn how to combine fresh ingredients for a meal that impresses without the fuss. Click through to explore the full recipe and discover tips for perfecting this delicious pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

  

8 oz linguine pasta

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta, then set it aside in the pot to keep warm.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic releases its fragrance but has not browned—avoid burn for a bitter taste.

Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Carefully add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the sautéed shrimp. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and zest. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is coated in the flavorful oil and juices. If the mixture appears too dry, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.

Finish and Season: Gently fold in the chopped parsley for a fresh burst of flavor. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper, if necessary. For the cheese lovers, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the dish with a creamy touch.

Serve: Plate the pasta in generous portions. For an attractive presentation, garnish each serving with additional chopped parsley and slices of lemon. A drizzle of olive oil on top can also add a lovely sheen.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4