Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Zest

Indulge yourself in a delightful culinary experience with this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Zest. This dish combines succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce infused with the zest of fresh lemon. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
3. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to combine.
2. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Fold in the cooked shrimp gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the creamy garlic shrimp pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve immediately, perhaps with a lemon wedge for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Shrimp Selection: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp that are large and deveined. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
• Pasta Choice: Fettuccine and spaghetti work beautifully, but you can also substitute with gluten-free pasta or whole grain options to cater to dietary preferences.
• Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. This will slightly alter the creaminess but maintain flavor.
• Adding Vegetables: For a nutritious twist, add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water infused with lemon and fresh herbs for a refreshing touch.

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the essence of this dish by photographing it in natural light. Use a plain white plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the shrimp and pasta. Consider adding a sprig of parsley or a lemon wedge to the plate for an inviting touch.

Exploring Variations

• Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs such as basil, dill, or chives to add freshness to the sauce.
• Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or swapping red pepper flakes for a spicy sausage.
• Creamy Vegan Option: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, use coconut cream, and nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly alternative.

Further Reading and Resources

To expand your culinary repertoire, check out these resources:

• How to Cook Perfect Pasta
• The Ultimate Guide to Cooking with Shrimp
• Tips for Making Creamy Pasta Sauces

Embark on your cooking adventure with this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Lemon Zest. Don’t hesitate to share your creations, and remember, cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process. Bon appétit!