Lemon Shrimp Pasta
User Reviews
4.5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
15 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
430 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Italian
Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Description
Lemon Shrimp Pasta features angel hair pasta cooked then combined with shrimp sautéed in butter and seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. After the shrimp turn just pink and cook through, lemon juice and optional lemon zest are added to impart a fresh citrus flavor. The cooked pasta is mixed in the pan with the shrimp, allowing the butter and lemon to coat all components evenly.
The shrimp are cooked briefly to preserve a tender texture, avoiding toughness or rubberiness. The butter creates a smooth, rich coating that carries the mild garlic and lemon flavors throughout the dish. The lemon juice adds brightness that balances the butter's richness, while the angel hair pasta provides a delicate base.
Serve this dish immediately while warm to enjoy the contrast between tender shrimp and soft pasta with citrus accents. It pairs well with green vegetables or a light salad for a satisfying meal. Leftovers can be stored airtight in the fridge and reheated gently to retain texture without overcooking the shrimp.
This recipe emphasizes careful timing: shrimp cook quickly and benefit from being flipped halfway through. Adjust the seasoning at the end to your taste by adding more salt, pepper, garlic powder, or lemon juice as desired.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta cooked according to package directions (half of a 1-pound box)
- ½ cup butter 1 stick, unsalted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or to taste
- 1 pound Shrimp peeled, de-veined, and cleaned with tails off (I prefer 12-15 count shrimp, large
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon optional, zest
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside.To a large skillet, add the butter and heat over medium-high heat to melt.
- Stir in the garlic powder.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes total, or until just pink and cooked through. Flip shrimp halfway through cooking. Cooking time will vary based on size of shrimp and pan used; don’t overcook or shrimp will become rubbery and tough.
- Add the lemon juice, optional lemon zest, and stir briefly to combine.
- Turn the heat to low, add the pasta to skillet with the shrimp, and toss to combine and coat.
- Taste, check for seasoning balance, and make any desired tweaks (add more salt, pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice, etc.).
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Best served warm and fresh to enjoy the texture and flavor fully.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp and losing tenderness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 430 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 430kcal | 22% |
| Carbohydrates | 21g | 7% |
| Protein | 29g | 58% |
| Fat | 25g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | 15g | 75% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 9g | 53% |
| Cholesterol | 300mg | 100% |
| Sodium | 1348mg | 56% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.