Make a fresh and flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with juicy shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and bright lemon tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This quick seafood pasta recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or summer meals. Save this easy lemon shrimp pasta recipe for a light yet satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy (ready in 25 minutes)
- Light yet satisfying
- Restaurant-quality flavor at home
- Budget-friendly seafood meal
- Customizable with veggies or pasta types
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- Salt for pasta water
For the Lemon Garlic Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zest + juice)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss gently.
- Add cooked pasta and toss until coated in sauce.
- Sprinkle parsley and Parmesan, then serve immediately.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Tongs
- Zester or grater
Tips & Variations
- Creamy version: Add ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Veggie add-ins: Spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes.
- Spicy option: Increase red pepper flakes.
- Protein swap: Use scallops or chicken instead of shrimp.
- Avoid rubbery shrimp: Cook quickly and remove from heat early.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette
- Pair with a fresh green salad
- Add a glass of white wine for a restaurant-style dinner
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 480
- Carbs: 50g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is bright, fresh, and packed with bold flavor. Perfect for quick dinners or special occasions, it’s an easy seafood pasta you’ll make on repeat. Don’t forget to save, print, or share.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely, and pat dry before cooking.
Can I make this ahead?
Best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated gently.
What pasta works best?
Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with olive oil and skip Parmesan.
How do I make it creamy?
Add heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce.