Craving a restaurant-quality meal that's ready in just 30 minutes? Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched coasts of Italy with this mouthwatering Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguini! Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around succulent, tender shrimp, infused with the bright zing of fresh lemon and the irresistible aroma of golden garlic. This dish isn't just a meal—it's a culinary escape that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguini
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of linguini, 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp, 4 cloves of minced garlic, the juice of 1 lemon, 1/4 cup of olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the linguini to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to warm for about 1 minute.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it.
- Once the garlic is fragrant, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are pink and opaque.
- When the shrimp are cooked, squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the shrimp and stir to combine. Let it cook for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
- Once the linguini is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the linguini in a colander.
- Add the drained linguini to the skillet with the shrimp and garlic. Toss everything together gently, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help combine and create a light sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and taste the pasta, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- To serve, divide the lemon garlic shrimp linguini among four plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguini!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality shrimp. Look for shrimp that smells clean and ocean-like, with a firm texture.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps create a silky sauce and helps the ingredients stick together. Always save a bit before draining.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic provides a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced or jarred garlic.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley isn't just for looks—it adds a bright, herbaceous note that elevates the entire dish.
- Serve Immediately: This pasta is best enjoyed hot and fresh, right after cooking to maintain the perfect texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 220mg
