Irresistible Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Whipping up a delectable lemon garlic shrimp pasta becomes an effortless culinary adventure for weeknight dinners.

pasta lovers rejoice in this quick and simple Mediterranean-inspired dish that packs incredible flavor.

Succulent shrimp swim through silky sauce, creating a harmonious blend of zesty and rich notes.

Bright citrus and robust garlic elevate each forkful with unexpected complexity.

Fresh ingredients dance together, promising a restaurant-quality meal straight from your kitchen.

Minimal preparation meets maximum satisfaction in this crowd-pleasing recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

You’ll want to bookmark this irresistible dish for your next meal.

Flavor Variations for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Dairy-Free Comfort: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free Seafood Feast: Swap traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free rice pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Protein Power Boost: Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or seared scallops for a different protein option while keeping the creamy lemon garlic sauce.
• Spicy Mediterranean Remix: Add red pepper flakes and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to introduce a zesty Mediterranean flavor profile to the original recipe.

Serving Ideas for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Zesty Garnish Boost: Sprinkle extra fresh parsley and lemon zest on top for a bright, aromatic finish that enhances the dish's citrusy flavor profile.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy, tangy sauce and delicate shrimp.
• Side Salad Companion: Pair with a light mixed green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta and add a fresh, crunchy element to the meal.
• Bread Dipping Delight: Serve alongside crusty garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to soak up the delicious, creamy sauce and add a satisfying texture contrast.

Storage Advice for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the pasta and sauce separate to prevent sogginess.
• Transfer cooled pasta and shrimp to a freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for maximum 2 weeks, ensuring minimal air exposure.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few drops of water, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.
• Warm gently in a skillet with splash of cream or butter over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent sticking and maintain sauce's creamy texture.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper searing and prevent excess moisture.

• Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt, and use whole wheat pasta for added nutrition.

• What if I don't have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley works fine, or you can substitute with fresh chives or basil for a similar fresh herb flavor.

• How can I tell if my shrimp is fully cooked?

Shrimp turns pink and curls into a “C” shape when fully cooked; avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery texture.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta to Savor

• Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal: Whip up a restaurant-quality dish in less than 30 minutes with minimal ingredients and simple cooking steps.
• Versatile Flavor Powerhouse: Combine zesty lemon, creamy sauce, and succulent shrimp for a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies diverse taste preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup by preparing the entire dish in a single skillet, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious food without extensive washing up.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Impress family and friends with a luxurious pasta dish that feels gourmet but comes together with basic cooking skills and accessible ingredients.

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that provides the protein and main flavor of the dish.
• Pasta: The hearty base that carries the creamy sauce and absorbs the rich flavors.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and smooth sauce base for the pasta.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, velvety texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp, salty depth to the creamy sauce.

• Garlic, Salt, Pepper: These seasonings bring depth and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Adds bright, citrusy notes that cut through the richness of the cream.
• Fresh Parsley: Offers a fresh, herbal garnish that adds color and a light flavor.

How to Cook Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Drop pasta into a pot of salted boiling water and cook according to the package instructions.

Once tender, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, ready to soak up the delicious sauce later.

Step 2: Sizzle Succulent Shrimp

Heat a large skillet and melt butter over medium heat.

Toss in the shrimp, seasoning with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink and are perfectly cooked.

Gently transfer the shrimp to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Unleash Garlic Aroma

In the same skillet, add another knob of butter and introduce minced garlic.

Let it dance and sizzle, releasing its fragrant magic for about a minute until the kitchen fills with an irresistible scent.

Step 4: Create Luxurious Cream Sauce

Pour in heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and bright lemon zest.

Allow the mixture to simmer and bubble, thickening into a velvety sauce that will coat every inch of your pasta.

Step 5: Melt Cheesy Goodness

Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely, creating a smooth and creamy texture that blends seamlessly with the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Flavors

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently fold them into the sauce.

Add the prepared pasta and toss everything together, ensuring each strand is lovingly coated with the creamy, lemony sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish by scattering fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of lemon zest on top.

Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and the sauce is creamy.

Tips to Perfect Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Cook shrimp just until they turn pink to maintain tender, juicy texture and avoid overcooking.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother, more authentic creamy consistency that melts perfectly.
• Zest the lemon before juicing to capture maximum citrus aroma and intensify the bright, tangy notes.
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie version without sacrificing creaminess.
• Replace regular pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Luscious lemon garlic shrimp pasta combines Mediterranean flavors for a quick weeknight dinner. Silky noodles and succulent shrimp create a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 300 grams pasta of choice
• 1 cup heavy cream

Flavor Enhancers:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Garnish:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta according to package instructions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Heat skillet over medium temperature, melt butter until golden and bubbling.
3. Add seasoned shrimp to hot skillet, cooking swiftly until translucent and coral-pink, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer cooked shrimp to separate plate.
4. In same skillet, introduce minced garlic, sautéing until aromatic and lightly golden, releasing intense fragrance.
5. Pour heavy cream into skillet, integrating freshly squeezed lemon juice and delicate lemon zest. Allow sauce to gently simmer, reducing and thickening for 2-3 minutes.
6. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and sauce transforms into smooth, luxurious consistency.
7. Reintroduce seared shrimp into creamy sauce, coating thoroughly.
8. Fold prepared pasta into skillet, tossing meticulously to ensure even sauce distribution and complete coating.
9. Finish dish with vibrant chopped parsley and additional lemon zest for bright, fresh garnish. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Swap out pasta for zucchini noodles or gluten-free options to make this dish more diet-friendly for those avoiding wheat or carbs.
• Use Greek yogurt or coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter, lower-fat version that still maintains a creamy texture.
• Choose wild-caught shrimp for better flavor and more sustainable seafood sourcing, ensuring a more environmentally conscious meal.
• Toast garlic briefly to enhance its nutty flavor and reduce any potential bitterness, creating a more complex and aromatic sauce base.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 511 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 440 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 165 mg