Go Back
- 8 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta - 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 3 tablespoons of olive oil - 4 cloves of garlic, minced - Zest and juice of 1 lemon - 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Indulge in the deliciousness of Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a perfect blend of succulent shrimp, bright lemon, and aromatic garlic. This easy-to-make dish is not only great for weeknight dinners but also elevates special occasions. Tossed with your favorite pasta and bursting with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and parsley, it's a flavorful meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. Transform your dining experience with this simple yet exquisite recipe!

Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or linguine

1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for preferred heat level)

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a spacious pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

      Cook the Shrimp: Add the cleaned shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Sauté for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set them aside.

        Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, along with the lemon zest and juice. Stir well, using a wooden spoon to scrape off any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.

          Combine Ingredients: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften. Next, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired sauce consistency.

            Finishing Touches: Stir in the chopped parsley and taste to adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary. Remove the skillet from heat.

              Serve: Plate the pasta, generously topping with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your vibrant and zesty meal!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                  Presentation Tips: For a beautiful serving, garnish each plate with an extra sprinkle of parsley and a lemon wedge on the side to add a pop of color and freshness.