Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghettini

Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghettini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghettini; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

I absolutely love cooking with shrimp, and this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghettini is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of fresh garlic, zesty lemon, and tender shrimp over perfectly cooked spaghettini creates a dish that's not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. I particularly enjoy this recipe because it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner that feels fancy without too much fuss. Trust me, once you try this, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-15T14:18:19.005Z

When I first experimented with this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghettini, I knew I had to focus on balancing flavors. The zesty freshness of lemon beautifully cuts through the richness of the shrimp, creating harmony in every bite. I remember the first time I served this to my friends; the compliments were endless!

One trick I learned is to sauté the garlic just until fragrant; if it's too brown, it can become bitter. This simple dish is best enjoyed fresh, and you can amp up the flavor by garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright citrus flavor that brings a burst of freshness
Juicy shrimp paired with perfectly al dente pasta
Quick yet elegant dish ideal for any occasion

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The garlic plays a pivotal role in this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghettini, bringing warmth and depth to the dish. For optimal flavor, choose fresh garlic instead of pre-minced varieties; the difference is remarkable. Sauté it just until fragrant to avoid bitterness—about one minute is typically perfect. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, indicating you’re right at the sweet spot for infusing flavors without burning.

Lemon zest adds a bright, aromatic quality that elevates the dish. Make sure to use a microplane to get the finest zest without the bitter white pith. This simple step maximizes the citrus impact, enhancing every bite of shrimp and spaghettini. As you combine the zest with the juice, you create a well-balanced sauce that brings everything together, making each mouthful refreshing.

Perfecting the Shrimp

When selecting shrimp, opt for large or extra-large shrimp for this recipe. Their texture holds up well during cooking and ensures a satisfying bite. If you can, buy shrimp that are still in the shell; they carry more flavor and moisture. After peeling and deveining, be sure to pat them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that lovely sear, enhancing the overall dish's taste and texture.

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, which isn't the desired result. A helpful tip is to remove the shrimp from the pan just before they seem finished, as they will continue to cook in the residual heat from the pan when combined with the pasta.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or water to prevent the pasta from drying out, and warm it on low heat in a skillet. It’s best to avoid microwaving, as it can overheat the shrimp and affect the texture.

For a twist on this recipe, consider adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the mix. You can sauté them briefly alongside the garlic. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors to your plate. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon-garlic sauce, making it a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghettini:

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghettini
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your dish:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghettini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add cooked spaghettini to the skillet, along with lemon zest, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together over low heat for a couple of minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.

Your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Spaghettini is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice or some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have spaghettini on hand, you can substitute with other pasta shapes such as linguine or fettuccine. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose. Gluten-free pasta varieties work well too; just watch them closely to avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy more quickly than traditional pasta.

For a dairy-free option, consider omitting any cheese garnish you might normally use. The lemon and olive oil provide enough richness, so there's no need for additional fats. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can replace parsley if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, scaling this dish is straightforward. You can easily double or triple the ingredients without changing the ratios. Just ensure you have a large enough skillet to fit all the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking. You may need to cook in batches if your skillet is too small, reducing the cooking time slightly for each batch to avoid overcooking.

To maintain the freshness and quality of the dish when scaling up, consider preparing the garlic confit in larger batches. This allows you to infuse a significant amount of oil at once, which can also serve as a flavorful addition to bread or salads for your gathering.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue is pasta that clumps together after cooking. To prevent this, make sure to stir the spaghettini frequently while cooking and add a drizzle of olive oil right after draining. Additionally, if your pasta absorbs too much liquid during cooking, reserving some pasta water is crucial. It can be added back to the pan later to bring everything together.

If the sauce seems too oily or lacks flavor, don’t hesitate to adjust with additional lemon juice or zest. This not only brightens the dish but also balances out any excess oiliness. Remember, cooking is about personal preference, so always taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for spaghettini?

You can substitute spaghettini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as linguine or fettuccine.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can replace half of the pasta with zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta for a healthier option.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.