There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a creamy, tangy, and savory pasta dish that comes together in minutes.
Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of zesty lemon, succulent shrimp, and rich, velvety sauce, making it a go-to meal for a special dinner or a comforting weeknight indulgence. Whether you're hosting guests or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Luxuriously Creamy – The sauce is rich yet light, with a burst of lemony freshness.
Protein-Packed – Shrimp is a lean source of protein, making this meal both delicious and nutritious.
Restaurant-Quality – Tastes just like a dish from an upscale Italian eatery.
Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need:
Pasta & Protein:
12 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tbsp lemon zest
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt & black pepper to taste
Garnish:
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add shrimp and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turns pink and opaque.
Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes.
Slowly add Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth.
Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan.
Toss in the drained pasta and mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
Pair with garlic bread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh lemon juice and zest add the best flavor, so avoid bottled lemon juice.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking makes it rubbery.
Balance the Sauce – If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water or broth to loosen it up.
Choose the Right Pasta – Long pasta like linguine or spaghetti works best, but fettuccine is also a great option.
Make it Lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch.
Add More Protein – Try adding grilled chicken or scallops for a seafood twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can thaw shrimp quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for 15 minutes.
2. What Other Pasta Can I Use?
You can use fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even short pasta like penne if preferred.
3. Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
4. How Can I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture.
5. Can I Make This in Advance?
It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the pasta and shrimp ahead of time and prepare the sauce when ready to serve.
6. How Do I Make It Spicier?
Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Pairing Suggestions
Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the lemony sauce perfectly.
Salad: A simple arugula or Caesar salad adds freshness.
Bread: Warm garlic bread or a toasted baguette is great for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings a touch of gourmet dining to your home. With its rich sauce, juicy shrimp, and bright citrus flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite. Try this recipe tonight, and let your taste buds rejoice!
إرسال تعليق