This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and rich garlic butter create a perfectly balanced pasta that’s light yet satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, elegant, and packed with bright flavors. The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Brine:
- 1 pound large shrimp
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pasta:
- 1/2 pound spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, sliced
- 2 cups reserved pasta water
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine shrimp with baking soda, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until 1 minute before al dente. Reserve pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes until pink and firm. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add 1/2 cup pasta water, butter, and drained pasta. Toss well to coat.
- Return shrimp to the pan and add lemon juice, zest, and parsley.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Adjust salt, pepper, and spice to taste. Add more pasta water if needed.
- Serve your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Do not overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Reserve enough pasta water—it helps create a silky sauce.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Add grated parmesan for a richer taste if desired.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly
Notes
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- Swap spaghetti with linguine or fettuccine.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 16g
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
What pasta works best?
Spaghetti or linguine are ideal choices.
Can I make it spicy?
Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
How do I prevent dry pasta?
Add reserved pasta water gradually while tossing.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can reheat gently with added liquid.
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Not recommended
- Reheating: Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or broth
Similar Recipes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Easy Recipe
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Brine:
- 1 pound large shrimp
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pasta:
- 1/2 pound spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves sliced
- 2 cups reserved pasta water
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large lemon zest and juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine shrimp with baking soda, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until 1 minute before al dente. Reserve pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes until pink and firm. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add 1/2 cup pasta water, butter, and drained pasta. Toss well to coat.
- Return shrimp to the pan and add lemon juice, zest, and parsley.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Adjust salt, pepper, and spice to taste. Add more pasta water if needed.
- Serve your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta immediately.
Notes
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish bursting with fresh, zesty flavor. With quick prep and easy steps, it’s a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion.