Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine Recipe

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine Recipe

Indulge in the delightful combination of succulent shrimp, al dente linguine, and a creamy, zesty garlic sauce with this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine recipe. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a burst of flavor that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• For the Linguine:

  • 12 oz linguine pasta
  • Salt for boiling water

• For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Linguine:

   • Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. If you want a kick, add the red pepper flakes at this stage.
   • Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add lemon zest and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

   • Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
   • Add the cooked linguine and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

5. Serve:

   • Plate the linguine in bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors!

Cooking Tips

• Choosing Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for wild-caught shrimp if available. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a mild, ocean-like smell—avoid any that smell overly fishy.

• Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and citrus juice elevate the dish’s flavor profile. Squeeze fresh lemon juice right before adding to the sauce for maximum freshness.

• Pasta Perfection: Do not overcook the linguine; it should have a slight bite (al dente). Remember that it will continue to cook a bit when mixed with the hot sauce.

• Substitutions: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. To make this dish gluten-free, substitute linguine with gluten-free pasta.

• Additions: Feel free to toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. They will wilt nicely in the sauce and add a fresh burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for a wonderful dining experience. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or garlic bread is a perfect complement to this dish.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the essence of this dish by focusing on the vibrant colors. Use natural light and a simple backdrop to highlight the creamy sauce and fresh herbs. A close-up shot of the shrimp glistening in the sauce can evoke a sense of indulgence, while a wide shot featuring all components of the dish can convey a festive dining atmosphere.

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine recipe is not only easy to make but also an excellent way to impress your guests with its rich flavors. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Dive into the world of flavors and textures, and you’ll find that cooking can be both a creative outlet and a source of joy.

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