Looking for a fast and flavorful seafood dish that brings the elegance of restaurant dining straight to your kitchen? This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate choice. Packed with the brightness of lemon, the richness of butter, and the aroma of garlic, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes. Whether for a busy weeknight or a romantic dinner, this recipe is bound to delight every palate!
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces (225 g) spaghetti or linguine
- Salt for pasta water
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Butter
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced – Garlic
- Zest and juice of 1 fresh lemon – Lemon
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock – Stock (cooking)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish) – Parsley
Step-by-Step Directions for Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Coat the shrimp with smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Transfer to a plate.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter in the skillet, then add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken stock. Let it simmer for 3 minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and reserved water to the skillet. Toss well to coat. Add the shrimp back to the pan and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Choose Quality Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp for the best flavor, or ensure frozen shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust chili flakes to your spice preference, or omit them for a milder dish.
- Save Pasta Water: Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency and add extra flavor.
Variations of Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed asparagus for extra nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
- Creamy Twist: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream for a richer, silkier sauce.
- Herb Substitutions: Replace parsley with basil or dill for a new flavor dimension.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking shrimp and sauce
- Tongs or spatula
- Fine grater for zesting lemon
- Colander for draining pasta
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of stock to refresh the sauce.
- Freeze the Sauce: Freeze the sauce separately for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and combine with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Note: Nutritional data is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.
FAQ for Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta
-
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Fettuccine, penne, or angel hair are all excellent substitutes.
-
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Swap the butter for olive oil and omit the Parmesan. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
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Can I prepare this ahead of time?
The sauce and shrimp can be prepped in advance. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
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What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the bright lemon flavors beautifully.
Irresistibly Delicious Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalA quick and irresistibly delicious Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta, bursting with zesty lemon, tender shrimp, and rich garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes for a perfect seafood dinner!
Ingredients
– 8 ounces (225 g) spaghetti or linguine
– Salt for pasta water
– 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– Zest and juice of 1 fresh lemon
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Coat the shrimp with smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Remove from skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium, melt butter in the skillet, and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add lemon zest, juice, and stock. Simmer for 3 minutes.
- Toss cooked pasta and reserved water into the skillet, mixing well. Add the shrimp and Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
