If you’re craving something bright, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, this Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe is the perfect answer. Combining al dente pasta with succulent shrimp, vibrant lemon juice, and a touch of garlic, it creates a harmonious dish that dances on your taste buds. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color while the Parmesan cheese melts into a deliciously creamy coating. It’s a dish that feels both elegant and approachable, making it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes the simplest ingredients make the most remarkable meals. For this Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe, each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and brightness that come together effortlessly.
- 12 oz spaghetti: Choose good-quality pasta to ensure that perfect al dente bite.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp bring juicy sweetness and protein.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps cook shrimp without sticking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers aromatic depth and a little zing.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: The zest provides intense citrus flavor without extra acidity.
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons): The star ingredient that brightens the entire dish.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings savory umami and a creamy texture.
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water: Helps achieve a silky sauce that clings to the spaghetti.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds lusciousness and melds the flavors together beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A fresh herb garnish that brightens and colors the dish.
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat: Adds a subtle kick if you like a bit of spice.
- Optional: extra lemon wedges for serving: For those who love an extra splash of citrus.
How to Make Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve a quarter cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This magical liquid will help your sauce stick to every strand of pasta like a charm.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, season your shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep a close eye and take them off the heat promptly. Set the shrimp aside for now.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté just for about a minute until fragrant—it’s important not to burn the garlic or it will turn bitter. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, sprinkle in the lemon zest, add the butter, and pour in the reserved pasta water. Let this mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and the sauce to slightly thicken.
Step 4: Toss It All Together
Return the drained spaghetti to the skillet and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss everything together until each strand is glistening with the tangy, buttery sauce. Finally, add the shrimp back into the pan and gently mix to combine. Taste and season with additional salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
How to Serve Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a delightful fresh crunch and color contrast, making your plate look as good as it tastes. If you love vibrant flavors, don’t forget those extra lemon wedges on the side—they’re perfect for squeezing an extra burst of brightness just before eating.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette or lightly roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added texture and nutrition. A slice of crusty garlic bread is also a spectacular companion to mop up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe in individual shallow bowls and sprinkle with a few edible flowers or microgreens to elevate the presentation. You can also turn it into a light pasta salad by chilling the cooked dish briefly and tossing with some extra olive oil and fresh herbs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoyed within 2 days for the best flavor and texture. The shrimp can become a little firmer when reheated, so handle with care.
Freezing
Freezing this Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe isn’t highly recommended because the shrimp and pasta textures can suffer once thawed. However, if you must, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to one month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals, stirring frequently. Adding a few teaspoons of water or a splash of olive oil while reheating helps to restore moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish and to ensure a nice sear on the shrimp.
Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice or can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended because it offers brighter, more vibrant flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but the taste may be less fresh and slightly more acidic.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and the recipe remains just as delicious and satisfying.
How spicy is this dish if I add red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can easily adjust the amount to your personal preference, starting with just a pinch and adding more if you like a little extra kick.
Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein?
Definitely! Grilled chicken or even sautéed scallops work beautifully with the lemony sauce and pasta. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly for your chosen protein.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe enough — it’s simple, elegant, and packed with vibrant flavors that feel like a celebration on your plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this is a dish that never disappoints. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A light and refreshing Italian-inspired lemon spaghetti with succulent shrimp, combining zesty lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan for a flavorful and easy-to-make seafood pasta dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Extra lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, butter, and reserved pasta water. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Toss Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked spaghetti and grated Parmesan cheese back into the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta in the sauce. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and gently mix everything together. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Serve: Serve the lemon spaghetti with shrimp immediately. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for extra brightness.
Notes
- You can substitute angel hair pasta for a lighter, more delicate texture.
- Swap shrimp for grilled chicken to vary the protein.
- For a creamy variation, add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce.
