This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick, delightful dish that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the savory notes of garlic and butter. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it's a crowd-pleaser that's both simple to make and delicious.
The star of the show is the shrimp, bringing both flavor and protein to the dish. Make sure they're peeled and deveined for ease of eating. The olive oil and butter form a luscious base for our sauce, while garlic provides a fragrant, savory depth. Lemon zest and juice add brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the butter. A splash of white wine offers complexity and a hint of sweetness. The simple seasonings of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes enhance the overall flavor. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese brings everything together with its nutty flavor.
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. A glass of the same white wine you used in cooking will complement the meal nicely. For a heartier option, serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up every bit of the sauce.
Start by cooking your spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water. Follow the package instructions and aim for al dente, which will give you the best texture for this dish. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before you drain it — it’s liquid gold for your sauce.
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned — you want to release its aroma without burning it.
Next, toss in the shrimp. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir them around the skillet, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to let the alcohol cook off and the flavors meld. Add the lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it with the shrimp and sauce. If your sauce feels a bit thick, add some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Finish by stirring in the chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Remove from heat and give it a final toss to make sure everything is coated in that delicious sauce.
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