Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine

Short Description

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine is a flavorful and elegant pasta dish made with tender shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter, tossed with al dente linguine, and finished with a bright splash of lemon juice and zest. It’s a light yet satisfying recipe that perfectly balances richness with freshness, ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare and ready in just 20 minutes
• Bright, zesty lemon flavor paired with savory garlic and butter
• A sophisticated dish with simple ingredients
• Great for entertaining or casual dinners
• Customizable with different vegetables or protein options

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Linguine pasta
• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
2. Heat olive oil and half of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and deglaze the pan.
5. Return the pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat with the sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen it.
6. Stir in chopped parsley and season to taste. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Include sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus.
• Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese.
• Use different pasta: Substitute linguine with spaghetti or fettuccine.
• Gluten-free option: Use your preferred gluten-free pasta.
• Add spice: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper.
• Use other proteins: Try scallops, chicken, or tofu instead of shrimp.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a small amount of water or broth to prevent drying. Avoid microwaving for long durations, as shrimp can become rubbery.

FAQs

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque—usually about 3–4 minutes—to avoid a rubbery texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

What can I use if I don’t have linguine?

You can substitute linguine with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne.

Is lemon zest necessary?

Lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor, but you can omit it if you don’t have a zester.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the components separately and reheat briefly before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this pasta.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mildly spicy due to red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use only olive oil instead of butter and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free substitute.

How much lemon juice should I use?

Typically, the juice of one medium lemon is sufficient, but adjust to taste.

What herbs work well with this dish besides parsley?

Fresh basil, thyme, or chives can be used for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that offers gourmet flavor with minimal effort. With its bright citrus notes, rich garlic butter base, and perfectly cooked shrimp, it’s a versatile recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for guests or preparing a quick dinner, this pasta delivers every time.

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