Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

A vibrant, zesty pasta dish featuring tender shrimp, fresh lemon, and a garlicky sauce—all prepared in a single skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.

I love how quickly this dish comes together and how flavorful it is without an overload of ingredients.

Ingredients

• Seafood: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Pasta: 8 oz (225 g) angel hair pasta
• Vegetables & Aromatics: 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 small shallot, finely chopped 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth Zest and juice of 1 large lemon 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Dairy: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Pantry: 2 tbsp olive oil 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1:

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2:

Add the shallot and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3:

Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 23 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 4:

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.

Step 5:

Add the angel hair pasta to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, 45 minutes.

Step 6:

Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Stir in parsley and Parmesan. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 7:

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and more parsley if desired.

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This recipe quickly became a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners where everyone loves the fresh flavors and quick prep.

Substitutions

You can substitute linguine or spaghetti for angel hair if preferred; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio and a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Gently reheat with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Save

This dish is a perfect balance of quick preparation and bright flavor that will impress any seafood lover.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I substitute angel hair pasta with another type?

Yes, linguine or spaghetti can be used as alternatives. Adjust cooking time slightly to ensure the pasta is al dente.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side, to keep them tender and juicy.

→ What broth works best for this dish?

Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth is ideal to control salt levels and enhance the lemon-garlic flavors.

→ Can I add cream to the sauce?

Yes, adding 1/4 cup of heavy cream with the broth creates a richer, creamier sauce.

→ What herbs pair well with this skillet dish?

Fresh parsley adds brightness, but basil or chives can also complement the lemon and garlic notes nicely.