Indulge in Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Herbs
Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Herbs is not only a delightful dish but also a splendid way to impress your dinner guests or enjoy a luxurious meal at home. With succulent shrimp, a rich and creamy garlic sauce, and a hint of zesty lemon, this recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz. linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delightful Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Herbs:
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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. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
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Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
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Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the chopped parsley.
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Serve: Plate the creamy garlic shrimp pasta and garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices if desired. Enjoy the rich flavors and indulge in this delightful dish!
Cooking Tips
- Ingredient Selection: Choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Pasta Options: While linguine or spaghetti works wonderfully, you can also opt for fettuccine or penne based on your preference.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Basil or dill can add a unique twist to this dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this pasta dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience.
Food Photography Ideas
Capture the beauty of your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta by using natural light and a simple backdrop. Use a shallow depth of field to focus on the dish while blurring the background. Adding fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top can enhance the visual appeal.
Further Reading and Resources
For those who want to explore more about pasta dishes and seafood pairings, check out these articles:
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Lemon and Herbs is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and textures in perfect harmony. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this recipe will surely impress. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations with friends and family, and explore other exciting recipes to expand your cooking repertoire. Happy cooking!
