Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta! This quick and easy dish combines succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, enhanced by the zesty brightness of fresh lemon. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion, this recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
The al dente pasta perfectly complements the tender shrimp, while the red pepper flakes add a subtle kick that balances the dish beautifully. Garnished with fresh parsley, this meal not only tastes delicious but also looks stunning on the plate. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a romantic date night, this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta will surely delight your taste buds and leave you craving more!
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti (or gluten-free pasta)
- Salt for pasta water
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
Cook the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Squeeze in lemon juice and stir well.
Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp.
- Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to help the sauce coat the pasta.
Serve:
- Plate the pasta and shrimp, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
Shrimp Size: Large shrimp (16-20 count) work best for this recipe, but you can use any size you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Pasta Choice: While linguine or spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute with your favorite pasta or a gluten-free option if desired.
Make it Creamy: For a creamy twist, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese to the sauce.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition and color.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the lemon and garlic flavors.
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
Lemon Zest: For an extra punch of lemon flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 30g