Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh flavors of seafood with the zesty brightness of lemon. This recipe features succulent shrimp sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, tossed with al dente pasta and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a hint of lemon zest.

It's a quick and easy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients. With just a handful of items, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home.

The combination of garlic and lemon not only enhances the shrimp but also gives the pasta a revitalizing kick. Serve it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest, then set the pasta aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. If you like a bit of heat, stir in the red pepper flakes at this stage.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, cooking for an additional minute to combine the flavors.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the shrimp and garlic sauce. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat, and stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

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