Merken Experience the perfect balance of zesty citrus and savory garlic with this Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta Lite. This dish brings together succulent, pan-seared shrimp and delicate angel hair pasta in a vibrant sauce that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying. It is an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a gourmet treat.
Merken The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using thin angel hair pasta ensures that every strand is perfectly coated in the silky sauce, while the quick-cooking shrimp stay tender and juicy. A finishing touch of fresh parsley adds a burst of herbal freshness that elevates the whole plate.
Ingredients
- Seafood: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Pasta: 8 oz (225 g) angel hair pasta
- Sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp olive oil, 4 garlic cloves (minced), zest and juice of 1 large lemon, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish: 1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped), lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Step 2
- While pasta cooks, pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 3
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer; cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Step 4
- Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and butter to skillet. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 5
- Add lemon zest, juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits.
- Step 6
- Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a silky texture.
- Step 7
- Return shrimp to the skillet, toss gently to combine, and heat through for 1 minute.
- Step 8
- Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best texture, be careful not to overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned. The reserved pasta water is the secret to a silky sauce, as the starch helps the butter and lemon juice emulsify perfectly with the noodles.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of dry white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic. If angel hair is not available, spaghetti or linguine make excellent substitutes. For a lighter version, simply reduce the butter to 2 tablespoons and slightly increase the olive oil.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this pasta immediately while hot to enjoy the glossy sauce at its best. Provide extra lemon wedges at the table so everyone can adjust the brightness to their preference. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green side salad or crusty bread.
Merken Each serving contains approximately 410 calories, 15g of total fat, 44g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein. This Mediterranean-inspired meal is a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner in the comfort of your own home.
