Lemony Garlic Shrimp with Pasta

Name: Lemony Garlic Shrimp with Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 225 g spaghetti (or your choice of pasta); 450 g shrimp (peeled and deveined); 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 1/4 tsp chilli flakes (optional); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

35 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Delight in this easy lemony garlic shrimp with pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal that's bursting with fresh flavours.

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Lemony garlic shrimp with pasta is a delightful, quick-to-make dish that brings together the fresh zest of lemon with the rich flavour of garlic and tender shrimp. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something light yet satisfying. This version of the classic pasta dish stands out due to its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. The combination of lemon, garlic, and shrimp creates a harmonious blend of flavours that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is designed for everyone. The step-by-step instructions will ensure that you can recreate this delicious meal with ease, impressing family and friends alike.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.

Prepare the shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pro tip: Avoid burning the garlic as it can turn bitter.

Cook the shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.

Pro tip: Shrimp cook quickly; watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Add lemon and seasonings

Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and chilli flakes, if using. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.

Pro tip: Fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavour than bottled.

Combine pasta and shrimp

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Pro tip: Use tongs to gently mix pasta with shrimp for even coating.

Finish with herbs and cheese

Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh lemon juice for a bright flavour.
Cook pasta al dente for the best texture.
Don't overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lemony garlic shrimp with pasta?

Lemony garlic shrimp with pasta is a dish that combines shrimp sautéed with garlic and lemon, served over pasta.

How many calories are in lemony garlic shrimp with pasta?

This recipe contains approximately 450 calories per serving.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

What type of pasta works best with lemony garlic shrimp?

Spaghetti or linguine work best, but you can use your preferred pasta shape.

How long does it take to cook lemony garlic shrimp with pasta?

The total time to cook this dish is approximately 35 minutes, including prep and cooking.

Can I make this dish in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to two days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this lemony garlic shrimp pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the citrus and garlic notes. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.