Indulge in Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta – A Quick Delight

Name: Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or linguine; 1 lb large shrimp, deveined; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons); 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: April 25, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy lemon shrimp pasta is quick to prepare, making weeknight meals effortless.
The rich layers of flavor offer a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Its beautiful presentation makes it perfect for impressing guests or special occasions.
Plus, it’s so versatile that you can easily adapt it to suit any palate.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their delighted faces and enthusiastic compliments made me feel like a culinary superstar.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti or Linguine: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; choose fresh pasta for added tenderness.
Large Shrimp: Opt for deveined shrimp for convenience; fresh or frozen both work beautifully.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed juice for vibrant flavor; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
Heavy Cream: Provides that luxurious creaminess; half-and-half can be used if you’re looking to lighten things up.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; avoid pre-minced varieties as they lose their punch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds umami richness; don’t skimp on quality—go for fresh grated over powdered.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the dish visually and adds freshness; feel free to use basil if you prefer!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; use it generously while cooking shrimp.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning—adjust based on your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Once fragrant, toss in the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.

Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream along with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Allow it to simmer gently while stirring occasionally until slightly thickened—about 3 minutes is perfect.

Add Pasta & Cheese: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with shrimp and sauce. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything while mixing well. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until your desired consistency is reached.

Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat and fold in chopped parsley for brightness. Plate your creamy lemon shrimp pasta and finish with additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for maximum creaminess!

Enjoy!: Sit back and relish each bite of this heavenly dish while soaking in compliments from family or friends who will surely ask for your secret recipe!

Embrace those moments when food brings everyone together around the table—it’s where memories are made!

You Must Know

For the best creamy lemon shrimp pasta, use fresh shrimp for superior flavor.
Always zest your lemons before juicing to maximize that zesty punch.
Don’t rush the sauce; a gentle simmer brings out the best in your ingredients.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente. While it cooks, sauté garlic and shrimp, then combine with the cream sauce for a seamless finish. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp with chicken or veggies. Adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance flavors and nutrients.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid curdling the cream.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always season your pasta water generously; it’s your first chance to add flavor.
A splash of white wine can elevate the sauce beautifully.
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a vibrant finish that will impress everyone.

Creating this creamy lemon shrimp pasta reminds me of a cozy dinner party where my friends devoured every last bite, all while sharing laughs and stories about their own culinary adventures. quick and easy egg muffins.

FAQs