If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in just 25 minutes, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Pasta! Imagine succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection, enveloped in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce that dances on your palate. This Italian-inspired recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and easy way to impress your family or guests. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Ready to dive into a culinary experience that’s both delicious and satisfying? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Pasta of choice
- Garlic, minced
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Parsley, chopped
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season shrimp with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and become opaque, with a slight golden color.
- Pour fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, stirring to coat evenly. The lemon will deglaze the pan and create a light sauce.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet with shrimp. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water if needed to create a light, glossy coating.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if required.
- Serve immediately in warm plates, garnishing with extra parsley and a lemon wedge if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta works, consider using linguine or spaghetti for the best texture and flavor pairing with shrimp.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon for creating a silky sauce. Use it to adjust the consistency of the dish.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice. They make a significant difference in taste.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile. Consider adding lemon zest for an extra zing!
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking while the flavors are vibrant and the pasta is warm.
- Pair with Wine: For an elevated dining experience, serve with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the dish beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
