Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Fresh Herbs
Indulge in a culinary delight with this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe, infused with fresh herbs and bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, combining succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and rich cream for a dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
-
Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
-
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
-
Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Fold in the sautéed shrimp and fresh herbs, mixing well.
-
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and additional herbs if desired. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
Cooking Tips
- Ingredient Selection: Always opt for fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like dill or chives for a unique twist on flavor.
- Pasta Choice: While linguine and spaghetti are popular options, you can substitute with any pasta that you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.
- Make it Light: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon.
Food Photography Ideas
Capture the vibrancy of this dish by plating it in a shallow bowl. Use natural light to highlight the creamy texture and bright herbs. Consider a garnish of lemon slices and a sprinkle of parsley for an eye-catching presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
This creamy lemon garlic shrimp pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, consider sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
Further Reading
Explore more delicious pasta recipes such as Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta or Shrimp Scampi Linguine to expand your culinary repertoire.
Experiment in Your Kitchen
Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! Try adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra pop of color and nutrition. The beauty of cooking lies in experimentation, so let your taste guide you.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Fresh Herbs is sure to impress. Try it out, and let the flavors transport you to a sun-kissed coastal retreat. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
