Looking for a bright and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare? This lemon shrimp pasta recipe is the answer! With its zesty lemon, succulent shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of garlic, lemon, and shrimp creates a delightful flavor profile that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This lemon shrimp pasta recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 400 calories, 25g protein, 10g fat, 50g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This is based on typical ingredients used in this dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Stir in lemon zest and juice, mixing well.
- Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, combining it with the shrimp mixture.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your zesty lemon shrimp pasta!
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein. Whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier option, and you can replace olive oil with butter for a richer flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This lemon shrimp pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables. A chilled glass of white wine complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the shrimp may become rubbery.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the shrimp can make them tough.
- Not salting the pasta water can affect flavor.
- Using too much lemon juice can overpower the dish.
- Forgetting to reserve some pasta water can lead to a dry dish.
- Not mixing the pasta with the shrimp mixture thoroughly can result in uneven flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
- Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking for the best results.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Linguine or spaghetti are ideal, but any pasta shape you prefer can be used. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
What can I serve with lemon shrimp pasta?
This dish pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This lemon shrimp pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors that is both quick to prepare and delicious. With its fresh ingredients and simple steps, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the bright taste of lemon and succulent shrimp in every bite!
Lemon Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Stir in lemon zest and juice, mixing well.
- Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, combining it with the shrimp mixture.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your zesty lemon shrimp pasta!
