Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Quick Weeknight Delight
Who says weeknight dinners can't be both fast and fancy? This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a dish that comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like it took hours to prepare. With its zesty lemon aroma, garlicky flavor, and creamy sauce, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta : Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Shrimp : Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until pink and slightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Sauce : In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, white wine (if using), and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Combine Everything : Return the shrimp to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve : Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.
- If you don’t have white wine, substitute it with chicken broth or water for a non-alcoholic version.