Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

If you're searching for a luxurious yet easy-to-make meal, this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect choice. It's a harmonious combination of tender shrimp, savory garlic, tangy lemon, and creamy sauce all served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a special dinner, this dish is sure to impress! Read on to discover the full recipe, ingredient tips, and all the secrets to creating this restaurant-quality meal at home.

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What is Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a rich and flavorful pasta dish that brings together the sweet, delicate flavor of shrimp, the zing of fresh lemon juice, the bite of garlic, and the smoothness of a creamy sauce. It’s the perfect blend of indulgent and refreshing, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. If you’re a fan of seafood and love the combination of citrus and garlic, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients List for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

To make this dish truly stand out, you’ll want to use fresh and high-quality ingredients. Here's what you’ll need:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) of fettuccine or linguine pasta (you can also use spaghetti if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter (for coating the pasta)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced (the more garlic, the better!)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Lemon Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon (plus extra for garnish)
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3-4 tbsp)
• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions and Variations

If you’d like to put your own twist on this recipe, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can still lead to a delicious meal.

• Shrimp Substitutes: If you don’t have shrimp on hand, this recipe works beautifully with other seafood like scallops or chunks of crab meat. Chicken breast can also be used for a non-seafood option.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the cook time, as it may vary.
• Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick of heat.
• Vegetarian Version: For a veggie version, substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes.
• Cheese Alternatives: You can use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper, more robust flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is simpler than it seems. The key is timing, ensuring that all the components come together seamlessly. Here's a detailed guide to help you:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add your fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions (typically 9-11 minutes) until al dente. You want the pasta to still have a little bite, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the sauce.
3. Drain the pasta and toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Sauté the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
4. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, but not browned.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

1. Add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce, stirring to coat them.
2. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, gently mixing to combine everything and evenly coat the pasta with the sauce.
3. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water (reserved from when you cooked the pasta) to loosen it up.
4. Remove from heat, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and give everything a final toss.

How to Cook Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here's a quick recap of the steps for making this mouthwatering dish:

1. Cook the pasta to al dente.
2. Sauté shrimp until just cooked, then set aside.
3. Make the creamy lemon garlic sauce.
4. Combine shrimp, pasta, and sauce in the skillet.
5. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of parsley and extra lemon zest for garnish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this dish is relatively simple to make, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking can make them tough and rubbery. Be sure to sauté them just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Curdling the Cream: If you add lemon juice to the cream at too high of a heat, it may curdle. Keep the heat at a medium level when combining acidic ingredients with cream.
3. Not Reserving Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a lifesaver if your sauce is too thick. Be sure to save some before draining the pasta.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The beauty of this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta lies not only in its taste but also in its presentation. Here's how to serve and plate this dish for maximum impact:

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Serve this dish immediately after cooking, as pasta can lose its texture if left sitting in sauce for too long.
• Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
• A side of garlic bread or crusty baguette is always a welcome addition for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a twist of lemon zest to add a pop of color and brightness.
• Use a large serving bowl for a family-style presentation, placing the shrimp prominently on top of the pasta for an eye-catching look.
• For a more formal presentation, twirl the pasta into neat bundles on individual plates and top with 3-4 shrimp per serving.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe Tips

• Freshness Is Key: Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be too tart and lack the brightness of freshly squeezed lemons.
• Use Quality Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp that are fresh or properly thawed from frozen. Wild-caught shrimp tend to have better flavor than farm-raised varieties.
• Don't Skimp on the Parmesan: The cheese adds a rich, savory depth to the sauce, so using high-quality Parmesan will make a noticeable difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance, then quickly cook the pasta when ready to serve. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding a little cream or pasta water to loosen it.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: While it's possible to use pre-cooked shrimp, fresh or raw shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture. If using pre-cooked shrimp, add them at the end just to warm them through.

Q: Can I make this pasta dish without cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use a combination of chicken broth and a bit of cornstarch for a cream-free alternative.

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a truly mouthwatering dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for entertaining. The combination of tender shrimp, zesty lemon, and a silky garlic cream sauce over pasta is hard to resist. With just a few quality ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dinner right in your own kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to enjoy one of the best pasta dishes you’ve ever made!

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