Minute Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Quick and Tasty Meal

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and vibrant Italian-inspired dish that combines tender spaghetti with juicy shrimp, fresh parsley, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is light yet satisfying, balancing the richness of olive oil and butter with the brightness of lemon. The shrimp cooks in minutes, making this dish not only flavorful but also incredibly fast to prepare. Whether served with parmesan or left clean and fresh, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to make on repeat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 ounces dried spaghetti or other long, thin pasta

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 5 large garlic cloves, minced

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)

• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 large lemon, juice and zest

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or more)

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 ounces parmesan cheese, freshly grated (optional)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring, until just pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.

4. Return skillet to medium heat. Add pasta and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water to shrimp mixture. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water as needed.

5. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Top with parmesan if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Swap shrimp for scallops, chicken, or salmon.

• Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for extra veggies.

• Use linguine or angel hair pasta instead of spaghetti.

• Add a splash of white wine to the sauce before tossing with pasta.

• For a creamy version, stir in a little heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving too long, as shrimp can become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can cook the pasta and prep the shrimp ahead, then finish quickly before serving.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking.

Do I need to devein shrimp?

Yes, deveining improves both texture and flavor. Many shrimp are sold already deveined.

Can I omit the butter?

Yes, but butter adds richness. You can use all olive oil for a lighter version.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Spaghetti, linguine, or angel hair all work beautifully.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute with gluten-free pasta.

How do I make it spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Do I need to add parmesan cheese?

No, it’s optional. The dish is delicious with or without it.

What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use a larger skillet and adjust pasta water as needed.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and elegant dinner that bursts with fresh flavor. The combination of tender pasta, garlicky shrimp, and bright lemon makes it a dish you’ll crave again and again. Perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, it’s a recipe worth adding to your rotation.

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