Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a delightful and easy-to-make dinner that you can prepare in just 45 minutes for four servings. The combination of fresh lemon juice, buttery garlic, and succulent shrimp creates a vibrant and flavorful dish that complements the rich al dente pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Ingredients needed:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced finely
• 2 lemons
• 8 ounces (about 1 cup) penne pasta or linguine
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Parmesan cheese, grated, optional

Instructions:

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and prepare your pasta according to the package instructions. When done, reserve 1/2 cup (100g) of the pasta water before draining.
2. In the meantime, in another pan over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until it just begins to turn golden brown but not burn.
3. Meanwhile, zest one lemon. Squeeze the juice from both lemons into a small bowl.
4. Add the shrimp to the same pan with the garlic, tossing frequently for about 2-3 minutes or until they are pink and firm but still tender. Remove them from heat as soon as cooked through.
5. Return the pasta to the pot over low heat and add in half of your lemon juice and zest, a splash of pasta water, along with butter and shrimp. Stir together well to coat everything evenly.
6. Serve hot with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired or simply garnished with fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

Key steps in preparation:

• The garlic needs to be sautéed but not overcooked; it should just start turning golden brown. Overcooking will make the flavor bitter and overpowering, which would ruin your dish's balance.
• Add lemon juice carefully. If you add too much at once, it can make the pasta too sour. Start by adding half of what you think is needed first, then taste before deciding if more lemon zest or juice should be added to your liking.
• Using just enough pasta water helps thicken and flavor the sauce without making it overly watery.

Tips for perfect results:

• To ensure that your shrimp stay firm but are cooked through, you need to check them frequently. The shrimp should be opaque with a light pink color when fully cooked; never let them turn white and tough!
• For those who love more lemon flavor, feel free to use the zest of an additional lemon as garnish on top of your dish for that extra burst of freshness.
• If you prefer a richer sauce, consider adding another tablespoon or two of butter towards the end of cooking. It will give it depth and creaminess without taking away from the bright acidity provided by the lemon juice.

Health Benefits:This dish is not only delicious but also packed with healthy components. Shrimp contains essential minerals such as selenium, which boosts your immune system; vitamins B12 (energy metabolism) and D (bone health), along with high-quality protein. Lemon provides vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants that support heart health when consumed regularly.

Variations:Feel free to experiment by substituting shrimp with scallops, chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. For extra flavor, you can also add some fresh spinach leaves into the pasta along with the shrimp before serving, turning this dish into a nutritious and hearty meal.

Conclusion:Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a simple yet incredibly versatile recipe that can be customized to suit various dietary preferences and occasions. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for both casual home cooks and experienced chefs alike who want something flavorful but not overly complicated. Enjoy your homemade dinner tonight!