Indulge in the delightful combination of succulent shrimp and zesty lemon with this lemon shrimp pasta recipe. This dish brings together fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create a meal that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this pasta is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the preparation and savor the flavors of the sea!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Introduce the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
- Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest, stirring to combine.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp mixture.
- Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce.
- Finish by stirring in fresh parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have shrimp, you can substitute with chicken or scallops. For a vegetarian option, use sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used for different dietary needs.
Serving and Pairings
This lemon shrimp pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a drink, consider a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be frozen for up to 1 month.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the shrimp can make them tough; cook just until pink.
- Not reserving enough pasta water can lead to a dry dish.
- Forgetting to season can result in bland flavors.
- Using low-quality shrimp can affect the taste; choose fresh if possible.
- Not tossing the pasta with the sauce can lead to uneven flavor distribution.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste as you go to adjust flavors.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Consider adding spinach or arugula for extra greens.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
What type of pasta works best for lemon shrimp pasta?
Both spaghetti and linguine are excellent choices, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach can enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the garlic.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture for an extra kick.
Is it okay to make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Conclusion
Lemon shrimp pasta is a delightful dish that combines bright flavors with a satisfying texture, making it a perfect choice for any meal. With its simple preparation and fresh ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the burst of citrus and the taste of the sea in every bite!
Lemon Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Introduce the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
- Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water, and add it to the skillet.
- Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce.
- Stir in fresh parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
