Indulgent Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Pasta dishes often evoke comfort and joy, and when you add shrimp and a luscious cream sauce, it becomes an unforgettable experience. Creamy lemon shrimp pasta is a beautiful blend of flavors that makes for an impressive yet simple meal.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend gathering, this dish shines with the freshness of lemon and the richness of cream. The shrimp, sautéed to perfection, add a savory touch that complements the pasta beautifully.

Ingredients

• 8 oz linguine or fettuccine
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Directions & Preparation

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the linguine or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, and toss to coat them well with the sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

What if the shrimp releases too much water during cooking?

Ensure you cook the shrimp quickly over medium-high heat to prevent excess moisture.

Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?

Yes, fresh lemon juice gives a brighter flavor and is highly recommended.

What if the pasta is overcooked?

If the pasta becomes too soft, future dishes can benefit from reducing the cooking time slightly or using a timer.

Can I add more garlic for extra flavor?

Absolutely, add extra minced garlic to the olive oil when sautéing for a stronger flavor.

What if I want to make this dish for a larger group?

You can easily double the ingredients and use a larger pot and skillet to accommodate the increased volume.

How can I make the sauce thicker if it's too runny?

You can simmer the sauce a little longer to reduce it further or add more Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy lemon shrimp pasta is a delightful dish that blends vibrant flavors with simple preparation. It’s perfect for showcasing your culinary skills without spending hours in the kitchen.

With its fresh ingredients and rich taste, this pasta dish will impress your family and friends alike, proving that great flavor doesn’t have to be complicated.

Recipe Card

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.