This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta is a quick and tasty meal! With juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and creamy Parmesan, it’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Cooking it is as easy as pie! I love how I can whip it up in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or when friends drop by—it always steals the show!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine is great here. If you have gluten-free options, use rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti. For a fun twist, try making this with whole wheat pasta for a nuttier flavor and healthier profile.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish. If you’re vegetarian or allergic to seafood, chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms can make a hearty substitute while keeping the dish interesting!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you’re short on fresh, try garlic powder, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness. If you need a substitute, lime can work too, but it will change the overall flavor a bit. For a less tangy option, try using a splash of white wine instead.
Spinach: This adds freshness. You can swap in kale for a heartier green, or even arugula for a peppery kick. If leafy greens aren’t available, consider adding broccoli instead!
How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp can be quick and easy! Just watch the timing to avoid overcooking. Perfect shrimp should be pink and opaque. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet and enough oil to coat the bottom.
- Once the oil is hot, lay shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until it turns pink, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat as soon as they turn opaque to keep them juicy.
Don’t be afraid to season them well, and feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for an extra burst of flavor!
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta dish takes about 30 minutes to make! With 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking, you’ll have a quick and elegant meal ready in a jiffy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Then, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine with Lemon and Spinach:
Add the butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir everything together until the butter melts. Next, toss in the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it’s just wilted.
5. Bring It All Together:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add your drained pasta and toss everything together thoroughly to combine. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add the reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency!
6. Finish with Parmesan:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and taste for seasoning. Adjust with salt, pepper, or more lemon juice if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your pasta with chopped parsley and more Parmesan cheese for a delightful finish. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
This dish is creamy, bright with lemon, and packed with flavorful garlic shrimp on a bed of tender pasta. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry to ensure they sear nicely when cooking!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have fresh Parmesan on hand, you can substitute it with pre-grated Parmesan cheese. Just be aware that it may not melt as smoothly, but the flavor will still be delicious! Alternatively, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for a sharper taste.
Can I Make This Pasta Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular spaghetti or linguine. The cooking time may vary, so be sure to follow the package instructions to get the perfect texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or heat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to restore some moisture and prevent drying out!