Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a fancy restaurant meal? This garlic lemon butter shrimp pasta is just the ticket. With succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and a hint of garlic, it’s a dish that brings the taste of the coast right to your kitchen.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It comes together in less than 30 minutes, yet delivers a burst of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, they won’t believe you made it at home!
A Quick and Flavorful Shrimp Pasta Dish
This delightful garlic lemon butter shrimp pasta brings a taste of coastal cuisine right to your dining table. Featuring plump shrimp sautéed to perfection in a fragrant garlic and lemon butter sauce, this dish is a harmonious blend of flavors.
The pasta, cooked al dente, complements the succulent shrimp beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and comforting. The bright citrus notes from the lemon add a refreshing twist, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.
Ingredients that Make a Difference
The simplicity of this dish is part of its charm. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you’ll create a meal that rivals those from high-end restaurants. The key players include large, juicy shrimp and a zesty lemon, accompanied by garlic that infuses the dish with depth.
Don’t forget the fresh parsley for garnish, which not only adds a splash of color but also a hint of freshness. This dish is versatile, allowing for adjustments based on personal tastes, such as adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
The rich butter sauce is what sets this pasta apart. Start by melting unsalted butter in a skillet, allowing it to brown slightly for a nutty flavor. Add minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Once the garlic has released its aroma, introduce the shrimp to the pan. As they cook, the shrimp will absorb the buttery goodness, turning pink and opaque, indicating they are ready to be paired with the pasta.
Cooking the Pasta to Perfection
Cooking the pasta is a simple yet crucial step. Use a large pot of boiling salted water to ensure the pasta is seasoned throughout. Aim for al dente, which gives the dish a nice bite and helps it hold up against the rich sauce.
Once drained, quickly toss the pasta with the shrimp and sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet meal.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
To elevate the experience further, serve the pasta in a vibrant bowl, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Lemon wedges placed alongside are not just for presentation; they also provide an extra burst of citrus when squeezed over the dish.
A glass of chilled white wine perfectly complements the rich flavors of the garlic lemon butter shrimp pasta, enhancing the meal and making it feel truly special. This combination transforms a simple dinner into a memorable occasion.
Why This Dish Stands Out
In under 30 minutes, you can prepare a meal that feels luxurious and satisfying. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that appeals to both the eyes and the palate.
This garlic lemon butter shrimp pasta is not only quick to make but also leaves a lasting impression. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, it showcases the joy of cooking with fresh, quality ingredients.
A Quick and Flavorful Shrimp Pasta Dish
This garlic lemon butter shrimp pasta features plump shrimp sautéed to perfection in a fragrant garlic-lemon butter sauce, tossed with al dente pasta for a delightful combination. The taste is a perfect blend of bright citrus and savory richness that dances on your palate.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well to combine with the shrimp.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic lemon sauce. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 45g