Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
A delightful combination of shrimp, garlic, and lemon, this pasta dish is quick to prepare and perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti This serves as the base, holding the flavors beautifully.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen can work too—just thaw thoroughly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances depth; feel free to adjust to taste.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced For that refreshing citrus kick—don’t skip the zest!
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Adds a fresh, vibrant touch—dried parsley can work in a pinch.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, but it gives a lovely heat balance.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Use low-sodium for more control over saltiness.
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil The heart of the sauce, enhancing richness; substitute with melted butter if desired.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for balancing flavors.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest. Set aside, letting it rest while you create the sauce.
Sautéing the Garlic
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Cooking the Shrimp
- Toss the shrimp into the pan, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque.
Creating the Sauce
- Once shrimp is cooked, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Combining with Pasta
- Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Finishing Touches
- Stir in the lemon zest and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving
- Divide into serving bowls and indulge in your creation while it’s still warm.
Notes
For a lighter option, consider substituting whole wheat pasta or spiralized zucchini. In the summer, toss in fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes or asparagus for added color and flavor. For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine along with the broccoli.