Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that feels like it came straight from a coastal restaurant? This lemon garlic shrimp pasta delivers bright citrus flavor, tender shrimp, and a silky garlic-infused sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. It’s fresh, satisfying, and comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights or effortless entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and simple: Ready in less than 30 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
• Bright and flavorful: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make this pasta light yet full of taste.
• High in protein: Shrimp provides lean protein without feeling heavy.
• Customizable: Use any pasta you like and adjust spice or herbs to your preference.
• Restaurant-quality at home: Simple ingredients create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Prepare the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Cook the shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
5. Create the sauce: Add butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir and scrape up any browned bits.
6. Combine everything: Add the pasta to the skillet with the reserved shrimp. Toss with a splash of pasta water until coated in the lemon-garlic sauce.
7. Finish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan (if using). Serve warm with extra lemon wedges.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp cook quickly and taste better than pre-cooked.
• Add vegetables: Try spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for more color and nutrition.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese for a silky version.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta without losing flavor or texture.
• Spice it up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili powder for a bold kick.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
• Freeze: This dish freezes best without the pasta. Freeze cooked shrimp and sauce in a container for up to 2 months, then thaw and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread or crusty French baguette.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad with vinaigrette.
• Pair with sparkling water with lemon slices for a refreshing drink.
• Finish the meal with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or fresh berries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a bowl of cold water for 15 minutes before cooking. Pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti, linguine, or angel hair pasta pair beautifully with the light sauce. You can also use short pasta like penne or fusilli if you prefer.

Can I make this without butter?

Absolutely. Replace butter with more olive oil for a dairy-free option. You’ll still get rich flavor from the garlic and lemon.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque — about 1–2 minutes per side. Remove them promptly and return them to the sauce at the end to rewarm gently.

Ready to Make It?

This lemon garlic shrimp pasta is fresh, light, and bursting with citrusy flavor — the kind of meal that turns any evening into something special. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, it’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

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