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A close-up of a bowl of lemon garlic shrimp pasta, topped with fresh parsley and grated cheese.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a fresh and satisfying meal with juicy shrimp, a light citrusy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients and delivers a balanced, protein-rich dinner that feels both comforting and light.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces spaghetti
For the Shrimp and Sauce
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve one half cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  5. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir and let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly reduce.
  6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  7. Add drained pasta and parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until evenly coated and the sauce lightly clings to the pasta.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender. Cook shrimp to an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.