Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most mouthwatering, zesty pasta dish that will transport you straight to the sunny coastlines of Italy! 🍋🍤 Our Lemon Wee Shrimp Pasta is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that promises to elevate your dinner game in just 25 minutes. Imagine succulent shrimp dancing with bright, citrusy lemon notes, perfectly coated over al dente spaghetti - this recipe is about to become your new weeknight obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 8 ounces of spaghetti, 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 lemon (juiced and zested), 2 cloves of minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Fresh parsley will be used for garnish.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about 1 minute.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, add the lemon juice and lemon zest to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- When the spaghetti is done cooking, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the shrimp and lemon sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Remove the skillet from heat and taste the pasta, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- To serve, plate the Lemon Wee Shrimp Pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious Lemon Wee Shrimp Pasta while it's warm!
Tips
- For the most tender shrimp, cook them just until they turn pink and opaque - overcooking will make them rubbery.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining, as the starchy liquid helps create a silky, smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
- Use fresh lemon for the best flavor - both the juice and zest will provide a bright, vibrant taste.
- If you want extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Fresh parsley is key for garnish - it adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous note to the dish.
- For best results, have all ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking, as this recipe comes together quickly.
- Choose medium or large shrimp for the best texture and presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 397kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
