Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a bright, zesty, and satisfying dish that brings together succulent shrimp, tender pasta, and a vibrant lemon-garlic sauce. This dish is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
It draws inspiration from Mediterranean flavors, featuring fresh lemon juice, aromatic garlic, olive oil, and just a hint of chili for a subtle kick. The shrimp add a juicy, protein-rich component that cooks quickly, making this dish a speedy yet luxurious option.
You’ll love Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta for its light yet indulgent feel. It’s incredibly easy to prepare—ready in about 30 minutes—yet tastes like something you’d order at a fine seafood restaurant.
The lemon and garlic not only complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp but also create a refreshing sauce that coats the pasta beautifully without feeling heavy.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this pasta delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile: you can add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for color and nutrition. Fresh, fast, and full of flavor, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Description
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant, zesty dish that combines tender shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil with al dente spaghetti or linguine.
Finished with a splash of fresh lemon juice, a hint of red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley, this pasta is light yet flavorful.
The lemon brightens the seafood, while garlic adds depth and warmth. It’s a quick, elegant meal perfect for weeknights or dinner parties, coming together in under 30 minutes.
Often garnished with grated Parmesan, it balances freshness with richness and offers a satisfying Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
For the Sauce:
Optional Garnishes:
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set cooked pasta aside.
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While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1.5–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, followed by the white wine or chicken broth. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and intensify in flavor.
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Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine.
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Toss in the chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, if using. Mix until everything is evenly combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 220mg74%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 35g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Tips & Serving Tricks
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a light yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Bursting with zesty lemon, savory garlic, and tender shrimp, it’s both elegant and easy to make. Here are tips, tricks, and serving ideas to elevate your dish and impress your guests or family.
Cooking Tips:
1. Choose the Right Pasta:
Spaghetti, linguine, or angel hair are all great choices. These thinner noodles allow the lemon-garlic sauce to coat each strand well. Avoid heavy shapes like rigatoni or penne for this dish.
2. Use Fresh Shrimp:
Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp (peeled and deveined) will deliver the best texture. Medium to large shrimp work best. Sauté them only until pink and opaque—overcooking makes them rubbery.
3. Zest, Don’t Just Squeeze:
Lemon zest adds a more concentrated citrus aroma than juice alone. Use both for balanced flavor: zest for fragrance, juice for tang.
4. Balance the Garlic:
Use fresh garlic cloves (4–6 for 2 servings) and sauté gently until golden. Avoid burning the garlic—it turns bitter quickly. You can mellow the flavor by adding a touch of butter after sautéing.
5. Reserve Pasta Water:
Before draining the pasta, reserve at least half a cup of the starchy cooking water. It helps emulsify the sauce, giving it body and helping it cling to the pasta better.
6. Enhance with Herbs & Heat:
Fresh parsley or basil brightens the dish. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic to give the pasta a subtle kick.
7. Finish with Fat:
A swirl of butter or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil at the end adds richness and a glossy finish. Parmesan cheese is optional—it adds umami but can compete with lemon, so use sparingly.
Serving Tricks:
1. Toss, Don’t Pile:
Mix the shrimp and pasta together in the pan to ensure even coating. Avoid serving pasta first and dumping shrimp on top—it won’t taste as cohesive.
2. Garnish Smartly:
Sprinkle fresh parsley, lemon zest, and a crack of black pepper on top just before serving. Add a lemon wedge for visual appeal and extra zest if desired.
3. Side Pairings:
Serve with a crisp side salad (arugula or baby spinach with vinaigrette), or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
4. Wine Pairing:
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or dry Rosé pairs beautifully with the lemon and shrimp.
5. Prep Ahead:
You can prep garlic, zest, and marinate shrimp briefly in lemon and olive oil 30 minutes ahead of time. However, cook the pasta and shrimp just before serving to keep them fresh and firm.
Servings & Scaling:
- This recipe easily scales. For every 2 servings, use about 6 oz of pasta, 1/2 lb of shrimp, 3–4 garlic cloves, juice and zest of 1 lemon, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter.
- For gatherings, serve in a warm platter, keep some extra sauce on the side, and top with freshly cooked shrimp to maintain texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra parsley, lemon wedges, and a light drizzle of olive oil if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.
Pairing Ideas:
- Wine: A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay complements the citrusy and garlicky flavors.
- Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a lemon wedge or a light iced tea.
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Swap: You can substitute shrimp with scallops, grilled chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Creamy Version: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche after adding the wine/broth for a creamier sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to adapt this recipe.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes for a spicier version or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Meal Prep: This pasta reheats well; store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water.
Final Thoughts:
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is an effortlessly impressive meal—bright, garlicky, and satisfying. The balance of citrus and spice against the sweet brininess of shrimp makes it a standout dish that can be ready in under half an hour. Whether you’re cooking for guests or simply treating yourself, this pasta is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen rotation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly for this dish. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce and prevent the shrimp from searing properly.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are traditional choices, as they hold the light lemon-garlic sauce well. However, you can also use angel hair for a delicate touch or penne for a heartier bite. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great substitutes for dietary preferences.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce components ahead. Store the cooked shrimp separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, quickly reheat everything in a skillet with a splash of reserved pasta water or lemon juice to freshen the flavor.
Is it possible to make it creamy or dairy-free?
Yes to both! For a creamy version, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the lemon-garlic sauce. To keep it dairy-free, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and cook the shrimp in olive oil or dairy-free butter.
