Description
Creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta delivers Mediterranean coastal flavors in one irresistible dish. Mediterranean ingredients dance together, creating a silky sauce that wraps tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta in delightful harmony.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 ounces (226 grams) spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) parmesan cheese
Flavor Enhancers:
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta in salted water according to package guidelines, ensuring an al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and set aside in a warm location.
- Create a flavor base by melting butter and olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Introduce minced garlic, allowing it to release its aromatic essence without browning.
- Slide succulent shrimp into the fragrant pan, seasoning generously with kosher salt and cracked black pepper. Cook until the seafood transforms into a vibrant pink hue and becomes opaque, indicating perfect doneness. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
- Deglaze the skillet with rich heavy cream and bright lemon juice, whisking continuously to create a smooth, velvety sauce. Allow the mixture to gently simmer and reduce, thickening to a luxurious consistency.
- Reunite the perfectly cooked shrimp with the silky sauce, then fold in the reserved pasta. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese, tossing everything together to ensure each strand is magnificently coated.
- Elevate the dish’s visual appeal and flavor profile by scattering freshly chopped parsley and delicate lemon zest across the top. Serve immediately while the pasta remains piping hot and the sauce maintains its creamy texture.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp cooks quickly to prevent rubbery texture, aiming for just pink and slightly curled.
- Use fresh lemon juice for brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories.
- Add red pepper flakes for subtle heat and extra depth if you enjoy a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg