Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish that combines tender shrimp, savory garlic, zesty lemon, and rich Parmesan cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, delivering restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes.
When life calls for comfort food with a gourmet twist, Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta steps up to the plate. Imagine al dente pasta infused with zesty lemon, the rich aroma of garlic, and plump, juicy shrimp coated in a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for a family dinner or a romantic evening.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and elegance. It combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors that transport your taste buds to a fine-dining restaurant. Look no further if you’ve been searching for an easy-to-make yet show-stopping dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Restaurant Quality: Offers gourmet flavors without the hefty price tag.
- Versatile: Works for casual family meals or elegant dinner parties.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy sauce and tender shrimp.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen. Swap with chicken or tofu for a different protein.
- Parmesan Cheese: Authentic Parmesan delivers the best flavor, but Pecorino Romano works too.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest elevate the dish. Bottled juice can be a backup.
- Heavy Cream: Essential for the sauce’s richness. For a vegan twist, use coconut cream.
Ingredients
- For the pasta:
- 300g spaghetti or linguine
- Salt for pasta water
- For the sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta (Step-by-Step)
- Start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh shrimp and garlic make a significant difference.
- Balance the flavors. The acidity of the lemon contrasts beautifully with the creamy Parmesan.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. Two minutes per side is enough for juicy perfection.
- Save the pasta water. It’s the secret to achieving a silky, restaurant-quality sauce.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use a nonstick skillet: It prevents shrimp from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Layer flavors: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth.
- Toss pasta immediately: Warm pasta absorbs the sauce better.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to prevent drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- A crisp Caesar salad.
- Garlic bread or a baguette.
- A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water for 15 minutes.
2. What pasta works best?
Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine are ideal, but any pasta will do.
3. How can I make it healthier?
Use whole-grain pasta and reduce the cream, or substitute with low-fat options.
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Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a timeless dish that combines comfort and elegance effortlessly. Its rich, creamy sauce and zesty notes are guaranteed to impress at any meal. Ready to wow your family and friends? Try this recipe tonight, and don’t forget to share your success stories in the comments!
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
For the pasta
- 300 g spaghetti or linguine
- Salt for pasta water
For the sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the shrimp:Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce:In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add lemon and cream:Stir in lemon zest, juice, and heavy cream. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Incorporate Parmesan:Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Toss cooked pasta into the skillet, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time for desired consistency.
- Finish with shrimp and garnish:Return shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
