If you’re looking for a quick yet impressive meal, this Lemon Herb Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a winner. It's vibrant, packed with flavor, and comes together in just about 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends.
The star of this dish is the shrimp, which cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Spaghetti acts as the perfect base, soaking up the sauce and providing that comforting feel. Butter adds richness, while garlic lends its unmistakable aroma and depth. We use both lemon juice and zest for a punch of freshness that brightens the dish. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil enhance the flavor profile with their unique aromas. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese provides a savory finish that ties everything together. Finally, olive oil is the foundation of our sauce, providing a smooth mouthfeel.
Serve this pasta with a side of garlic bread for a perfect meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the dish nicely, adding a refreshing contrast. A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the lemony notes and enhances the dining experience.
First, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it well and set it aside. You want the pasta to be firm enough to hold up to the sauce but not too chewy.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burned garlic can turn bitter.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them until they turn pink, which should take about 2-3 minutes on each side. Make sure each piece is fully cooked through but not rubbery.
Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Let the butter melt completely and mix with the other ingredients to form a cohesive sauce.
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it well to ensure every strand is coated in the sauce. This is where the pasta absorbs all those delicious flavors.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley, basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will wilt the herbs just enough to release their aromas.
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