30-Minute Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick, delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties. With juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and perfectly cooked pasta, you’ll impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 lemon, zested
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Kitchen Equipment
Instructions
- Boil water and cook the pasta: bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the spaghetti or linguine, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the garlic: while the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add and cook the shrimp: add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine pasta and sauce: reduce the heat to low, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and reserved pasta water to the skillet, then toss in the cooked pasta and mix well so it absorbs the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: remove the skillet from heat, stir in the chopped parsley, adjust salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook’s Notes
For a thicker, creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream along with the pasta. Marinating the shrimp in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking adds extra flavor, and swapping in different pasta shapes can give the dish a fresh twist.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap the shrimp for chicken or sautéed vegetables to make a vegetarian version, and use gluten-free pasta if needed. A splash of white wine added after sautéing the garlic also boosts the dish’s flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pasta hot straight from the skillet with extra Parmesan and a lemon wedge on the side, paired with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, as microwaving can make the shrimp rubbery.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking so they sear nicely instead of steaming in the pan.
How do I keep the shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side, and remove them from heat promptly since overcooking is what makes shrimp tough.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh since the sauce is light and can absorb into the noodles, but you can prep the shrimp marinade and chop the garlic and parsley in advance to speed up cooking.