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Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Fresh & Flavorful Weeknight Meal


  • Author: Hannah

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz spaghetti or linguine

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

  • ½ cup pasta water (reserved)

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:

    • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

    • Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.

    • Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

  • Sauté the Shrimp:

    • Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large pan over medium heat.

    • Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

    • Add shrimp, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

    • Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until shrimp are pink and opaque.

    • Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

  • Make the Sauce:

    • In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

    • Pour in ¼ cup of reserved pasta water, stirring to create a light sauce.

  • Combine Everything:

    • Return the pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.

    • Add shrimp back in, along with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

    • If needed, add more pasta water for a silkier sauce.

 

  • Serve & Enjoy:

    • Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley.

    • Serve with lemon wedges for extra zest.