ZESTY LEMON GARLIC SHRIMP PASTA
This zesty lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a light yet flavourful dish perfect for seafood lovers. The combination of tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a splash of tangy lemon juice creates a refreshing and satisfying meal. The dish is simple yet elegant, offering a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your home. The delicate balance of acidity and savoury flavours enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp while perfectly complementing the al dente spaghetti. With minimal ingredients, this pasta is an excellent choice for a quick dinner without compromising on taste. Whether enjoyed as a weekday meal or served at a casual dinner gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley can elevate its freshness, making it even more delightful. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Entrée
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Boil, Sauté, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Weeknight Dinner, Summer Meal, Light Lunch
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Quick & Easy, Low Fat
DISH TYPE
Pasta
INGREDIENTS
The list of ingredients for zesty lemon garlic shrimp pasta is given below:
- 50g spaghetti, cooked
- 80g shrimp, peeled
- ½ garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp lemon juice
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 5g
- Fibre: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
PREPARATION
- Cook The Spaghetti: Boil salted water in a pot and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté The Shrimp: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add Garlic And Lemon Juice: Lower the heat, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Drizzle in the lemon juice and stir to combine.
- Toss With Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the garlic-lemon mixture.
- Serve: Transfer to a plate and garnish with fresh parsley, grated parmesan or a drizzle of extra olive oil if desired. Enjoy!
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS FOR ZESTY LEMON GARLIC SHRIMP PASTA
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances the dish’s flavour and texture. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking.
- Adjust Lemon Juice: If you prefer a more citrusy kick, increase the lemon juice slightly to enhance the tanginess.
- Don’t Overcook Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so sauté it briefly to prevent bitterness.
- Enhance The Sauce: For a richer taste, add a teaspoon of butter or a splash of white wine while cooking the shrimp.
- Al Dente Pasta: Cooking the spaghetti to al dente ensures the best texture and helps it hold onto the sauce better.
VARIATIONS
- Creamy Version: Stir in a tablespoon of light cream or Greek yoghurt for a creamy garlic lemon sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or parsley for added freshness and aroma.
- Whole Wheat Alternative: Swap regular spaghetti for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for more fibre.
- Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken or tofu alongside the shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as shrimp can become rubbery when frozen and reheated. If necessary, freeze without the pasta and cook fresh spaghetti when serving.
- Meal Prep: Cook the shrimp and store it separately from the pasta to prevent it from becoming soggy. Assemble just before eating for the best texture.