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- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 3 tablespoons olive oil The main ingredients bring the dish to life. The pasta serves as a great base. Spaghetti or linguine works well in this recipe. Large shrimp adds a nice protein boost. Olive oil gives a rich flavor and helps cook the shrimp. - 4 cloves garlic, minced - Zest and juice of 1 lemon - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Seasoning adds depth to the dish. Garlic gives a strong aroma and taste. Lemon zest and juice brighten it up with fresh flavor. Red pepper flakes add a bit of heat, but they are optional. You can skip them if you prefer a milder dish. - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) Garnish enhances the visual appeal. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Grated Parmesan cheese can add creaminess and saltiness. You can leave it out if you want a lighter dish. Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Use about one tablespoon of salt for every quart of water. Once it boils, add 8 oz of spaghetti or linguine. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, until it is al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later. While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but not browned. Next, add 1 lb of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque. After that, stir in the zest and juice of 1 lemon. Mix well before adding the cooked pasta. Toss the pasta and shrimp together gently in the skillet. If it looks too dry, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauciness. Remove from heat and mix in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if you want. Enjoy! To avoid overcooking shrimp, keep an eye on the color. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 2-3 minutes. If they curl tightly, they are likely overdone. Seasoning shrimp is key to great flavor. Use salt and pepper to bring out the taste. Don't forget the red pepper flakes if you like some heat. If you want to switch up the heat, try using black pepper or smoked paprika instead of red pepper flakes. These options can add a different twist without losing flavor. Fresh herbs can really elevate your dish. Chopped basil or cilantro work well as garnishes. They add a burst of freshness and color to your plate. Timing is crucial for a 15-minute meal. Start boiling water for pasta as you prepare the shrimp. This way, both can cook at the same time. Prepping ingredients in advance saves time. Chop garlic and parsley before you start cooking. This makes your cooking process smooth and quick. {{image_2}} You can make this dish more colorful and healthy by adding vegetables. Spinach is a great choice. It wilts quickly and adds a nice texture. You can also toss in cherry tomatoes. They burst with flavor when cooked and add a sweet touch. To add more fiber, consider using broccoli or zucchini. Just chop them small and add them to the skillet when you cook the shrimp. This way, they cook evenly and blend well with the pasta. If you want a change from shrimp, try chicken or tofu. Chicken breast works well. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and cook it the same way as the shrimp. For a vegetarian option, tofu is perfect. Use firm tofu, press it to remove water, and cut it into cubes. Cook it until golden in the skillet. Both options will soak up the lemon and garlic flavors just like the shrimp. You can switch up the pasta to fit your diet or taste. If you want whole grain, choose whole wheat spaghetti or linguine. For gluten-free options, use brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta. Both types will hold up well with the sauce. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results. To store Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, let it cool first. Use an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to separate shrimp and pasta if you can. This helps maintain texture. The best way to reheat this pasta is on the stove. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water. Heat on low to avoid burning. Stir gently and check for warmth. You can also use the microwave. Place it in a bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for one minute. If it seems dry, add a little olive oil or lemon juice to boost flavor. Yes, you can freeze Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Allow it to cool completely first. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to two months. To defrost, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of water for moisture. This keeps the flavor and texture nice. Making Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta takes about 15 minutes total. You spend 5 minutes prepping and 10 minutes cooking. First, boil the water and cook the pasta. Then, sauté the garlic and shrimp. Finally, mix everything together. It’s quick and easy. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. Fresh shrimp taste great, but frozen works well, too. They save time and still add flavor. This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad. You can also serve garlic bread for extra crunch. For a light touch, a side of steamed veggies works great. Enjoy your meal with a glass of white wine for a perfect match. You learned how to make a quick and tasty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta. We covered the main ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for better flavor. You can use fresh herbs or try different proteins. Storing leftovers properly helps keep the dish fresh. This simple recipe is a great way to impress friends or family. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy a delicious meal tonight!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta 15-Minute

Indulge in a quick and delicious meal with this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta! In just 15 minutes, you can create a flavorful dish featuring juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and fresh garlic. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress. Ready to get cooking? Click through to discover the step-by-step guide and elevate your dinner game with this irresistible seafood pasta delight!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or linguine

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

    Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

      Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, stirring occasionally.

        Combine: Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired sauciness.

          Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and mix in the chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

            Prep Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4