This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a fresh and tasty dish that’s easy to whip up. Juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and fragrant garlic come together with tender pasta for a meal that sings with flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine is perfect for this dish, but you can use spaghetti, linguine, or even whole wheat pasta if you prefer a healthier option.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here. If you’re looking for a substitution, consider using chicken breast cut into small pieces or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. I find fresh garlic really elevates the dish.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice touch, but you can use kale or Swiss chard as an alternative. If using frozen spinach, be sure to squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but once you know the signs, it’s a breeze. The key is to watch them closely:
- Heat your pan well before adding shrimp; this helps them cook evenly.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them. They should be opaque and firm when done.
- If you overcook them, they become rubbery, so keep an eye on them and remove from heat immediately once cooked.
Keep it simple, and you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Flavoring:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced), plus lemon wedges for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta takes about 30 minutes in total! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping ingredients and cooking, and just a little time savoring the delicious smells in your kitchen. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later. Set the drained pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and a little pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Garlic and Spinach:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and turn the heat down to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn. After the garlic is fragrant, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and sauté until they are wilted, which should take about 2 minutes.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, along with the drained fettuccine. Gently toss to combine all ingredients. Next, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to coat everything evenly. If the mixture looks a bit dry, stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Final Touches:
Give your pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and more red pepper flakes if you like a little extra kick. Serve your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with more grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon wedges on the side, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor!
Enjoy your delicious and fresh Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in the fridge overnight or, for a quicker method, submerge the sealed bag in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking to prevent extra moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Fettuccine?
If fettuccine isn’t your favorite, you can easily substitute it with spaghetti, linguine, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
What Should I Do If the Pasta Seems Dry?
If your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta feels dry, simply add the reserved pasta water a little at a time while tossing the dish. This will help achieve the desired creamy consistency and enhance the flavors!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to help loosen the sauce. Enjoy your pasta even after a day or two!
