Zesty Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta (Ready in 20 Minutes!)
This Zesty Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta is a light, fresh, and flavorful meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Juicy shrimp, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs come together with a splash of lemon and tender pasta for a quick dinner that tastes like something special.Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without the fuss, this one-pan pasta is easy, satisfying, and simple to customize with what you have at home.
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite shape)
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water (more if needed)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic:In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce:Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and a splash of pasta water to the skillet. Stir and simmer for 1–2 minutes to build flavor.
- Combine Everything:Add cooked pasta and shrimp back to the pan. Toss well to coat in the lemony garlic sauce. Stir in chopped herbs. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish:Top with extra herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!