Quick and Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a popular dish that combines the tangy, zesty flavor of lemon with the savory essence of garlic to create a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal. This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want something fresh and flavorful.

The main ingredients needed are pasta (any type will do), shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese. You can also add some vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes if you prefer to make it more filling or nutritious. This dish is easy to prepare with minimal effort and time.

Cooking Time: About 20 minutes

Servings: Serves 4 as a main course, but can be easily doubled for a larger group

Ingredients Needed

• Pasta (about 1 cup of dry pasta)
• Shrimp (1 pound fresh peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
• Lemon juice (juice from 2 lemons)
• Fresh garlic cloves (4-6, minced or crushed)
• Parmesan cheese (grated, to taste)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• (Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish, spinach leaves, or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add the pasta into the water and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm but cooked through). Once done, remove the pasta and set it aside in a colander.

2. In a skillet or frying pan, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot enough, add the minced garlic cloves to the pot. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.

3. Next, add the shrimp into the pan and sauté them until they become opaque and fully cooked—about 3-4 minutes per side. You may need to reduce heat slightly if you prefer less-done shrimp. Drain any excess moisture from the shrimp before adding it back to the pasta.

4. Now, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with fresh lemon juice into the pan and mix well. Allow this mixture to simmer for another minute or two to meld flavors together nicely.

5. Mix the cooked pasta back into the skillet containing the lemon garlic sauce. Toss everything gently until all pieces are evenly coated. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese according to your taste preference.

6. If desired, stir in some fresh herbs like parsley or add spinach leaves or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color. Serve immediately on plates, garnished optionally with additional parsley.

Additional Tips and Variations

To make this dish even more special, consider adding a bit of cream to give it a richer texture without overpowering the citrusy notes. You could also experiment by using different types of pasta such as fusilli or penne for variety.

If you're looking for an alternative protein source, try replacing the shrimp with chicken breast or scallops. The flavors work equally well with these other options too!

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread on the side if you want to complement your meal further. For a heartier option, serve this as part of a larger meal alongside a tossed green salad dressed simply with vinegar and olive oil.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not just another everyday pasta dish; it’s a taste adventure that brings together simplicity and sophistication. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions—from casual dinners to romantic dates—while its health benefits make it an excellent choice for those watching their waistlines too! With its bright flavors and satisfying texture, this dish promises to become one of your go-to recipes in no time.