Description
This Lemon Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful Italian-American dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp are sautéed with garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes, then combined with al dente pasta, fresh lemon zest and juice, Parmesan cheese, and parsley for a bright, zesty finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Finishers
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Pepper Flakes: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Add Lemon and Pasta: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice into the shrimp. Then add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to combine well. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley until well mixed. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use angel hair pasta for a lighter texture.
- Substitute chicken for shrimp if preferred.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream with the lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
