This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is both zesty and creamy, making dinner feel special without a lot of fuss. The shrimp is juicy, and the sauce has a nice garlic punch!
I whip this up when I want something quick yet fancy. Plus, the kids think I’m a master chef, and who doesn’t love a little garlic bread on the side? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti are perfect for this dish, but any long pasta will work. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are juiciest, but you can use medium ones too. If you have a shellfish allergy, consider using chicken or firm tofu for a different yet flavorful twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic creates the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but use less—about 1/2 teaspoon per clove. Roasted garlic is another tasty option!
Cheese: Parmesan adds a rich flavor. Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can also work well in this dish.
Spinach or Kale: These leafy greens provide nutrition and color. If you don’t have them, try using any other greens like arugula or Swiss chard.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Shrimp for This Recipe?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky as they can overcook quickly! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Start with shrimp that are deveined and peeled for convenience.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high and add oil before the shrimp. This prevents sticking and helps in browning.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque. Don’t crowd the pan; it’s better to cook them in batches if necessary.
- Remove them quickly from the heat once they are done to avoid overcooking.
Enjoy perfectly cooked shrimp that are juicy and delicious in your pasta!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Shrimp:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Extras:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to make, including prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and tasty option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside for now.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the shrimp in the skillet, and season them with salt, pepper, and half of the red pepper flakes if you want a bit of spice. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re cooked, take them out of the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce Base:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the butter. Once the butter has melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn—it can get bitter!
4. Add Greens and Flavor:
If you’re using spinach or kale, throw it into the skillet now and cook it until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. After that, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and the reserved pasta water. This will create a light, delicious sauce—bring it to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked pasta and the shrimp back into the skillet. Give everything a good toss to combine so that your pasta is nicely coated in the sauce.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet and stir until the cheese is melted and well mixed into the pasta. Adjust the seasoning if needed with a little salt and pepper. It’s all about your taste!
7. Serve and Garnish:
If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the dish, and if you’re feeling extra spicy, add a few more red pepper flakes. Serve your Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with lemon wedges and a touch more Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your bright, flavorful Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or you can use the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative such as nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese product. Just skip the butter or use a plant-based butter substitute as well!
What Should I Serve with Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or a refreshing lemony vinaigrette to complement the flavors in the dish.
