If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this lemon shrimp pasta recipe is your answer. With succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a bright lemon sauce, this dish is both refreshing and indulgent. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party. Your guests will be impressed, and your family will love it!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
For one serving (1/4 of the recipe), the nutritional value is approximately: 350 calories, 20g protein, 45g carbohydrates, 10g fat, and 5g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet; season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook until shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest and Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious lemon shrimp pasta!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles are great alternatives for a healthier twist.
Serving and Pairings
This lemon shrimp pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the shrimp can make them rubbery; cook just until pink.
- Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland pasta.
- Using bottled lemon juice instead of fresh can affect flavor.
- Forgetting to drain the pasta can make the dish watery.
- Skipping the parsley reduces freshness in flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use large shrimp for better texture.
- Make sure your ingredients are prepped before you start cooking.
- Adjust the amount of lemon to suit your taste.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of cream or milk.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti is traditional, but you can use linguine, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the heat level.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and combine with pasta when ready to serve.
What can I serve with lemon shrimp pasta?
A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully.
Conclusion
This lemon shrimp pasta recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also bursts with fresh flavors that will delight your palate. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy this delightful meal any night of the week!
Lemon Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Parmesan cheese for serving optional
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet; season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook until shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest and Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious lemon shrimp pasta!