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To start making your Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, the first step is cooking the pasta. Choose a high-quality spaghetti or linguine for this recipe, as these types of pasta hold onto the sauce beautifully. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt; this is crucial for seasoning the pasta. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding your pasta.

30-Minute Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. This delightful dish combines fresh lemon, aromatic garlic, and succulent shrimp, creating a true crowd-pleaser. With its colorful presentation and balanced taste, it's ideal for weeknight dinners or special celebrations. Elevate your cooking with this easy recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results at home, all while providing a healthy and delicious experience.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or linguine

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

    Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

      Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant (do not let the garlic burn).

        Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits on the bottom of the skillet. Let it cook for about 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.

          Mix Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.

            Finish & Serve: Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4