Introduction
There’s something utterly delightful about a plate of Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. It’s a perfect dish to whip up for a cozy weeknight dinner or to impress guests on a special occasion. This pasta dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also brings a burst of bright, zesty flavors that dance on your palate. The buttery sauce, combined with plump shrimp, and the refreshing hint of lemon makes this a standout dish that everyone will adore.
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, remembering to reserve 1/2 cup of that precious pasta water.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing it to become fragrant but not browned.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you crave a bit of heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are beautifully pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, letting those bright flavors meld together.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in that luscious lemony butter sauce. If the mixture seems dry, drizzle in some reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, add the chopped parsley, and gently mix everything together to combine, letting the flavors blend beautifully.
- Serve immediately, generously topped with grated Parmesan cheese to finish off this delightful dish.
Notes or Tips
For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic. It will enhance the dish and add a lovely depth. Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference. Additionally, this dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves basic sautéing and cooking pasta techniques. Ensure your skillet is hot enough to give the shrimp a nice sear without overcooking them. The key is to have everything ready to go before you start — a little prep work goes a long way for a smooth cooking experience!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully before cooking, and then proceed with the recipe as outlined.
What other pasta types work well with this recipe?
You can use any long pasta shape you prefer, like fettuccine or even whole wheat varieties for a healthier twist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead of time, then toss everything together just before serving.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful recipe that brightens up any dinner table. With its quick preparation and fresh, vibrant flavors, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, put on some upbeat music, and savor the deliciousness of this wonderful dish!