"Try this zesty lemon pasta with shrimp recipe! Quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect for a light, delicious meal. #LemonPasta #ShrimpRecipe"
Here’s a list of all the ingredients for **lemon pasta with shrimp**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help your recipe rank better:
- **8 oz (225g) pasta** (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work best)
- **1 lb (450g) shrimp** (peeled, deveined, and tail-off for convenience)
- **3 tbsp olive oil** (extra virgin for better flavor)
- **4 cloves garlic** (minced for a rich, aromatic base)
- **1 lemon** (zested and juiced for fresh citrus flavor)
- **1/2 cup heavy cream** (or substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- **1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese** (plus extra for garnish)
- **1/4 tsp red pepper flakes** (optional, for a hint of spice)
- **1/4 cup fresh parsley** (chopped, for garnish and freshness)
- **Salt and black pepper** (to taste)
- **1/2 cup pasta water** (reserved for creamy sauce consistency)
**Optional Add-Ins:**
- **1/2 cup cherry tomatoes** (halved, for a pop of color and sweetness)
- **1/4 cup white wine** (for deglazing and added depth of flavor)
- **1/4 cup capers** (for a tangy, briny kick)
This **lemon shrimp pasta** recipe is perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner that’s packed with fresh, zesty flavors. Use these ingredients to create a creamy, citrusy dish that’s sure to impress!
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Steps
# How to Make Lemon Pasta with Shrimp: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're craving a light, zesty, and flavorful dish, lemon pasta with shrimp is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tangy lemon, succulent shrimp, and al dente pasta for a refreshing meal that’s easy to prepare. Follow these detailed steps to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
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## **Ingredients for Lemon Pasta with Shrimp**
- 8 oz (225g) linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Cook the Pasta**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
### **2. Prepare the Shrimp**
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
### **3. Make the Lemon Sauce**
- In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and reduce the heat to medium.
- Sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
### **4. Combine Pasta and Shrimp**
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the lemon sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cooked shrimp, ensuring everything is well combined.
### **5. Garnish and Serve**
- Transfer the lemon shrimp pasta to serving plates.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
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## **Tips for the Best Lemon Pasta with Shrimp**
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Adjust the creaminess by adding more or less heavy cream.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
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This lemon pasta with shrimp recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!