Lemon Shrimp Pasta

 

Lemon Shrimp Pasta: A Light and Zesty Weeknight Favorite

If you're craving a dish that's elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight meal, this Lemon Shrimp Pasta is exactly what you need. Bursting with citrusy brightness, juicy shrimp, and silky pasta tossed in a light garlic-butter sauce, it’s a dish that feels indulgent—without being heavy.

Perfect for spring and summer (or anytime you need a little sunshine on your plate), this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality flavor right from your own kitchen.

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🍋 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & Easy: Ready in 25–30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.

• Light but Satisfying: Fresh lemon and herbs brighten up the dish without weighing it down.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Impressive enough to serve to guests, simple enough to enjoy solo.

• Customizable: Works with any pasta shape and optional veggie add-ins.

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🍤 Ingredients:

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

• Lemon wedges, for serving

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Sauté the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant (but not browned). Stir in lemon zest and juice.

4. Toss the pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a splash at a time to help coat the pasta and create a silky sauce.

5. Return shrimp to the pan and toss everything together until heated through and well combined.

6. Finish with parsley, season to taste, and serve warm. Top with freshly grated Parmesan and a squeeze of extra lemon juice, if desired.

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🍽️ Serving Ideas

This light and zesty pasta pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad

• Garlic bread or a warm baguette

• A chilled glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

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🧑‍🍳 Optional Add-Ins & Variations

• Add veggies: Try spinach, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or asparagus for a colorful boost.

• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone for a richer sauce.

• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta without sacrificing flavor.

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🌟 Final Thoughts

Lemon Shrimp Pasta is one of those magical meals that hits all the right notes—fresh, savory, and satisfying, without being fussy. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a family, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Simple ingredients, vibrant flavor, and a touch of elegance—this dish proves that sometimes the best meals are the ones that come together in just one pan.