Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
A quick and delicious pasta recipe featuring tender shrimp, tangy lemon, savory garlic, and creamy Parmesan. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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.