Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Keyword: balanced lemon garlic shrimp pasta

This balanced lemon garlic shrimp pasta recipe is a delightful twist on classic pasta dishes, combining the freshness of lemon with the robust flavors of garlic and shrimp. This meal promises to satisfy every palate while being quick and easy to prepare. It's perfect for those looking for something new but familiar in their cooking repertoire.

The preparation time for this dish is approximately 25 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner when you're short on time or want something special without spending hours at the stove. Servings are generous enough to feed four people comfortably, ensuring there's plenty of leftovers if desired!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 16 oz (450g) pasta - I recommend fettuccine or linguine for this dish as they pair well with the lemon and garlic flavors.
• 8 oz (227g) shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp work best but frozen can also be used if you're in a pinch. Thaw completely before use.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice from one lemon
• 1 cup heavy cream or half and half for a richer sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta according to package instructions until al dente - usually about 8-10 minutes depending on your preference.

Meanwhile, in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This will infuse the oil with the garlicky aroma that is essential to this dish.

Add thawed shrimp and cook until they turn pink throughout - approximately three minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the starchy water if necessary for a creamier sauce consistency.

Return the skillet with the shrimp to medium-high heat. Stir in lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, heavy cream or half & half, salt, pepper, then pour in the cooked and drained pasta. Gently toss everything together ensuring even distribution of all components. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.

For added color and freshness, garnish with chopped parsley if using. Serve immediately accompanied by a side salad for a complete meal experience.

Nutritional Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal depending on portion size.
• Fat content: Saturated fats from the shrimp and cream contribute significantly to this dish. About 18g of total fat per serving.
• Promotes balanced nutrition with essential vitamins C & B found in lemon juice, along with protein rich shrimp providing vital amino acids needed for muscle recovery post workout.

Health Benefits

The combination of lemon and garlic adds antioxidants which are beneficial for skin health. Shrimp being a source of lean protein is good for those aiming to maintain or lose weight, as it provides satiety without too many calories. Heavy cream contributes healthy fats which help in absorbing fat soluble vitamins from other foods consumed along with this dish.

Conclusion

This balanced lemon garlic shrimp pasta not only brings together flavors that complement each other beautifully but also offers a nutritious balance of proteins, good fats and essential vitamins. Preparing it can be as simple or elaborate as you like - whether you opt for homemade heavy cream sauce or use store-bought alternatives. It's versatile enough to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.