How to Make a Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Looking for an easy yet impressive dinner? Try making this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta! This recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to become a family favorite.

The deliciously tangy and garlicky lemon shrimp sauce pairs beautifully with tender pasta. It's quick to prepare, takes around 30 minutes of cooking time, and serves four people nicely. The bright and zesty lemon adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich garlic flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) of your favorite pasta shape
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter or margarine, melted
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 lemons, zested and juiced
• 1 1/2 cups fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 oz (about half a pack) of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Begin by bringing a large pot filled with water to a boil. Salt it generously to taste (about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per quart of water). Once the salted water is boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.

1. While the pasta cooks, heat up the butter or margarine in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
2. Add the shrimp to the pan with the garlic. Season with salt and stir frequently until the shrimp just turns opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove the cooked pasta from the pot using a slotted spoon or spider and transfer it into the skillet containing the shrimp mixture. Toss everything together well so that each piece of pasta is evenly coated with the garlicky lemon butter sauce. If desired, you can also add more melted butter for extra richness.
4. At this point, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice from one or both lemons depending on how strong you like your dish. Stir well again to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined and heated through.
5. Pile the pasta onto serving plates. Sprinkle liberally with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving hot.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, make sure your lemon zest is finely grated to release its essential oils fully into the dish. Also, try not to overcook the shrimp; it’s better slightly underdone than overcooked since they tend to become tough and rubbery when overcooked.

Pairing Suggestions

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a simple Caesar salad if you're in need of something lighter. For those who prefer heartier side dishes, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or crusty French rolls for dunking into the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of preparation. They should last up to three days if handled properly. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions on high for about 2 minutes or until heated through.

Cooking Time and Serving Size

The entire cooking process should take roughly 30 minutes including prep time. Serve four generous portions, though feel free to adjust based on your appetite or the number of guests you have planned.

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not only delightful but also relatively simple to execute. With just a few ingredients and basic steps, you can enjoy a sophisticated meal that will impress both family members and dinner party guests alike. Give it a try this weekend for a quick yet rewarding experience!