If you're looking for a dish that perfectly blends creamy comfort with a zesty kick, this Zesty Lemon Herb Shrimp Alfredo is for you. With its vibrant flavors and creamy sauce, it's an ideal way to elevate your weeknight dinner game.
The succulent shrimp are the stars here, providing a sweet, tender bite that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Fettuccine pasta serves as the ideal vehicle to soak up all that deliciousness. Butter adds richness, while the heavy cream creates that signature Alfredo texture. Garlic brings a fragrant depth, and Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory note. The lemon zest and juice give the dish its signature zing, balanced by the fresh parsley and basil for a herby freshness. A touch of olive oil helps to cook the shrimp to perfection, and a splash of chicken broth helps meld the sauce together. Lastly, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives it just the right amount of heat.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. A crusty loaf of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the remaining sauce. For a touch of elegance, serve with a chilled glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Start by cooking your fettuccine according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water well to give the pasta some flavor. Once it's done, drain it and set it aside.
In a large skillet, warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the shrimp and cook them until they're pink and opaque, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside for later.
Using the same skillet, melt the butter and add in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. You don't want it to burn, so keep an eye on it.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and let it come to a gentle simmer. Once it's there, reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until you have a smooth and melted sauce.
Now, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to make sure the flavors are well combined.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, giving them a good toss so they're nicely coated in the sauce. Finally, add the cooked fettuccine, tossing again until the pasta is thoroughly covered with the creamy sauce.
Garnish with extra parsley, basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you're feeling spicy. Serve it warm and enjoy!