This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is zesty and full of flavor! With tender shrimp, a hint of garlic, and a splash of lemon juice, it’s a quick meal that’s perfect for any night.
The best part? It only takes about 20 minutes to make! I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley and some crusty bread. Quick, easy, and oh so delicious! 🍋🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti is perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. I’ve used both and loved the results!
Shrimp: Large shrimp is great for this recipe, but you can also use medium shrimp. If shrimp isn’t available, try chicken or even chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor. In a pinch, you can use garlic powder—just about 1/8 teaspoon per clove—but fresh is the way to go for vibrant taste!
Spinach: Adding fresh spinach is optional but highly recommended for color and nutrition. Kale or arugula can work as substitutes if you want something different.
Red Pepper Flakes: This gives a nice kick. If you don’t have them, you may try a dash of hot sauce or even leave it out for a milder dish.
How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp may feel tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it! The goal is to get them juicy and tender, without overcooking.
- Start with dry shrimp, patting them with a paper towel. This helps get that nice golden color.
- Heat the oil and butter on medium heat, then add the shrimp. They should sizzle but not burn.
- Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove promptly to avoid tough shrimp!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
For the Garnishes:
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp, and the rest is just combining everything together for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, take your shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. This step adds flavor to the shrimp!
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat up the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the shrimp to the pan. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. When they’re cooked through, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
5. Add the Spinach:
If you’re using fresh spinach, now’s the time to toss it into the skillet. Cook it for just a couple of minutes until it wilts down. The spinach adds a nice color and nutrition to your dish!
6. Combine Everything:
Next, add your cooked pasta to the skillet along with the lemon zest and lemon juice. Toss everything together well, adding the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired sauce thickness. This helps to bring all the flavors together nicely!
7. Return the Shrimp:
Now, return the shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to combine and heat everything through. The shrimp only need to warm back up, not cook further.
8. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle your freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top. This adds a lovely finish! Serve your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing fresh lemon juice over the pasta.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast sprinkled on top for a cheesy taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! Besides the red pepper flakes, you can add some diced fresh chili peppers or even a drizzle of hot sauce to kick up the heat level. Just adjust the amount to your taste preference!
