20-Minute Quick and Flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
A light yet satisfying pasta dish featuring tender shrimp, garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice tossed with spaghetti. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe offers a protein-rich, wholesome meal that’s both flavorful and easy enough for weeknight dinners.
Equipment
- 1 large pot (for boiling pasta)
- 1 large skillet (for cooking shrimp and pasta)
- 1 pasta strainer or colander
- 1 measuring cup (for pasta water)
- 1 lemon zester or grater
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- (1) Chef’s knife
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti or any long pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 5 garlic cloves minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1 pound medium shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 large lemon zest and juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper freshly ground, to taste
- 2 ounces Parmesan cheese freshly grated (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta Water: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Generously season the water with kosher salt—it should taste like the sea, as this will help flavor the pasta from the inside out. This step is key for well-seasoned pasta. Once the water reaches a full boil, you’re ready to cook the spaghetti.
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Add your spaghetti (or any long pasta) to the boiling water and stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until the pasta is al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. This usually takes about 8 minutes, but keep a close eye and taste-test a strand to ensure perfect texture. Once done, reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help bind the sauce and coat the pasta beautifully. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- Heat the Olive Oil and Butter: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow them to melt and heat together until they shimmer and begin to sizzle gently. The combination of olive oil and butter adds richness while keeping the flavors balanced and light.
- Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the hot oil and butter. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. This step infuses the oil with robust garlic flavor and a subtle kick from the red pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp Perfectly: Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet in a single layer if possible. Let the shrimp cook undisturbed for about 1–2 minutes on one side, then gently stir or flip them to cook the other side. The shrimp should turn opaque and pink with a slightly golden edge—this usually takes 3–4 minutes total. Remove the skillet from heat briefly to prevent overcooking while you prepare the pasta.
- Combine Pasta with Shrimp: Return the skillet to medium heat. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp and garlic mixture. Pour in ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce. Gently toss everything together using tongs or a large spoon, making sure each strand of pasta is coated evenly. If the pasta seems dry, add more of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a silky, slightly glossy consistency.
- Add Fresh Lemon and Parsley: Remove the skillet from heat once the pasta is coated and hot. Stir in the zest and juice of 1 large lemon, then add ¼ cup of freshly chopped parsley. The lemon brightens the dish with zesty freshness, while parsley adds a vibrant color and herbaceous note. Taste and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the pasta to individual bowls or a large serving platter. If desired, sprinkle 2 ounces of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a subtle nutty flavor. Serve immediately while warm. Pair with a crisp green salad or a glass of white wine for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is remarkably versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on taste preferences.
- You can swap spaghetti for any long, thin pasta such as linguine, fettuccine, or even whole-wheat options for added fiber.
- For a milder dish, reduce the red pepper flakes; for a bit more heat, increase them slightly.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is optional, letting the bright lemon and garlic flavors shine without overpowering the shrimp.
- Always reserve a portion of pasta water before draining—it’s the secret to a silky, well-emulsified sauce.