This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a fun and tasty treat! Juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and cheesy parmesan combine for a bright and creamy dish that’s sure to make your taste buds happy.
Honestly, who can resist pasta topped with shrimp and garlic? It’s like a flavor party on your plate! I like to add extra lemon for a fresh kick. Enjoy this simple meal any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti for this dish, but linguine is a great choice too. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works just as well. Just remember to thaw it before cooking. You could also swap shrimp for chicken or even tofu if you prefer a different protein.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re trying to cut back on dairy, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for this recipe! If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute. For a vegan option, try nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese blend.
Garlic: Fresh garlic has a stronger flavor compared to jarred minced garlic. If you don’t have garlic on hand, shallots can be a nice, mild substitute.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Getting shrimp just right is crucial! Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet before adding shrimp. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side. They are done when they turn a lovely pink and have a nice “C” shape.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet. If you have a lot of shrimp, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Take them out as soon as they’re opaque to prevent overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
With these tips and tricks, your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta will turn out delicious every time!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For Cooking:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Olive oil, for cooking shrimp
Flavorings:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
For Garnishing:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20-25 minutes in total. You’ll need approximately 10 minutes to prep your ingredients and cook the pasta, and then about 15 minutes to cook the shrimp and combine everything into a tasty meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or linguine and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. When it’s done, drain the pasta but be sure to save about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with a little salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook until they turn pink and opaque, which will take about 2 minutes on each side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet you used for the shrimp, reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic and, if you’re using it, the crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
4. Add Lemon Flavors:
Next, stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice into the skillet, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Toss in the drained pasta along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together, and if the pasta seems a bit too dry, add some of that reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Finish with Shrimp:
Gently return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to warm them through. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated.
7. Season and Serve:
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Presentation:
Serve the pasta immediately on plates or a large serving dish. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side for that refreshing touch.
Enjoy your fresh, flavorful Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Substitute the Pasta for Gluten-Free Options?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free pasta! Just make sure to follow the package directions for cooking time, as it may vary from regular pasta. Quinoa or rice pasta can be great alternatives.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional olive oil to help moisten the dish and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. For the cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor or skip it altogether if preferred.
