Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fettuccine

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the sea with this exquisite Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fettuccine recipe. Perfectly cooked shrimp, combined with a zesty garlic and lemon sauce, makes for a delightful dish that is sure to impress. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also showcases fresh ingredients that elevate the entire dining experience.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Fettuccine: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

2. Prepare the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Sauté the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery.

4. Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in the lemon zest and juice, mixing well to coat the shrimp. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Combine with Fettuccine: Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything together. Ensure that the pasta is well coated with the lemon garlic sauce.

6. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Tips

• Selecting the Right Shrimp: When choosing shrimp, opt for wild-caught varieties when possible, as they tend to have a better flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight sheen.

• Pasta Cooking Tip: Always cook pasta in a large pot of boiling water to prevent it from becoming sticky. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

• Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and lemon to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the garlic or use less lemon juice.

• Make it Creamy: For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a handful of grated Parmesan cheese when combining the fettuccine and shrimp.

Pairing Suggestions

This Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fettuccine pairs beautifully with a crisp, chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water infused with lemon slices for a refreshing touch.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dietary Preferences: For a gluten-free version, substitute regular fettuccine with gluten-free pasta.
• Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking to create a vegetarian dish, consider using sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus in place of shrimp.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to add a unique twist to the dish.

Conclusion

Enjoy the delightful experience of preparing and savoring Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Fettuccine. This dish not only highlights fresh ingredients but also showcases your culinary skills. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and make it your own.

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, check out this article on pasta variations or explore easy seafood recipes.

Remember, cooking is an adventure! Share your culinary creations with friends and family, and don’t forget to come back for more inspiring recipes. Happy cooking!