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- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - Juice and zest of 1 large lemon - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) - Lemon wedges for serving

30-Minute Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta! This dish combines succulent shrimp with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a zesty lemon and garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s quick to prepare and rich in nutrition. With ingredients like fresh parsley and a hint of red pepper flakes, each bite is a delightful mix of savory and bright. Elevate your meal with this simple yet impressive recipe that’s sure to impress your family and guests!

Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 225g) linguine or spaghetti

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. When hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: Pour in the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss well to evenly coat the pasta with the sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit more reserved water.

          Add Shrimp and Garnish: Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the pasta, along with the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

            Serve: Divide the pasta into serving bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings