This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a quick and tasty meal! The shrimp is cooked with zesty lemon and garlic, then tossed with pasta and creamy Parmesan. Yum!
On busy nights, this is my go-to dish. It’s so easy to make, and the flavors dance on your tongue. Plus, who can say no to pasta with shrimp? I know I can’t! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works well here, but you can swap in fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal, but don’t fret if you have smaller ones or even frozen shrimp. Just ensure they’re thawed and cooked through—smaller ones cook faster!
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference, but you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste. Unless you’re a garlic lover, then go for it!
Lemon: Fresh lemons give a bright flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work too. Use about 2 tablespoons if you’re out of fresh lemons. The zest adds a nice touch, so try to include that if you can.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for creaminess and flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can also do the job. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free substitute for a similar cheesy flavor.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with a little attention, you can get it just right! Here’s how:
- Heat your oil over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot enough that the shrimp sizzle when added.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Cook shrimp in batches if necessary, so they can cook evenly and get a nice golden color.
- Cook for about 2 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink and opaque—perfect doneness!
- Remove from the skillet as soon as they’re done to keep them tender. Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp for your pasta every time!
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and shrimp and another 10 minutes putting everything together and enjoying the wonderful aromas. It’s a quick meal for those busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions, until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and then set it aside.
2. Cooking the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, until they’re pink and opaque. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
3. Preparing the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté it until it’s fragrant and golden, usually about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
4. Adding Flavor:
Next, mix in the lemon zest and lemon juice with the garlic butter sauce in the skillet. Give it a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors!
5. Bringing it All Together:
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the lemon garlic sauce until they’re evenly coated. Then, add your drained pasta to the skillet, mixing everything together. If you find the pasta seems a bit dry, pour in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finishing Touches:
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even more lemon juice if you’d like it zestier!
7. Serving:
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your bright, savory Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them first by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a quick thaw. Pat dry with paper towels before cooking to avoid extra moisture.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking the shrimp or mix them into the sauce. Start with a pinch, and adjust to your taste for the perfect spice level!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components ahead. Cook the pasta and shrimp, then store them separately in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to eat, simply reheat and toss with the sauce and cheese.
What Should I Serve With Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a light option, consider serving it with steamed or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal.