If you are craving a vibrant, fresh, and utterly delightful meal, then this Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. It perfectly balances zesty lemon brightness with succulent shrimp and al dente spaghetti, all wrapped in a buttery, garlicky sauce that feels both comforting and exciting. Every forkful bursts with flavor, making it an ideal dish for casual weeknights or impressing friends at dinner parties. Let’s dive into this simple yet spectacular meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients are the heart of the Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe, each bringing something essential to the table — from the juicy punch of lemon to the tender, savory shrimp, every single component matters in crafting this irresistible dish.
- 12 ounces spaghetti: The classic pasta base that soaks up the luscious sauce perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps cook the shrimp beautifully.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and flavorful.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a hint of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: A subtle kick to elevate the flavor profile without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: A splash of acidity and savory notes, perfect for the sauce.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the entire dish with a refreshing citrus zing.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of green freshness and vibrancy.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings a silky, smooth finish to the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: Melty, savory topping that complements the lemon and shrimp beautifully.
How to Make Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente — firm to the bite but cooked through. Remember to reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy water will help marry the sauce and pasta later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook; shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for just 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth along with fresh lemon juice, making sure to scrape up any yummy browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly and intensify the flavor.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Combine
Turn the heat to low and stir in the butter until it melts into the sauce, creating a glossy finish. Add the cooked spaghetti, shrimp, lemon zest, and chopped parsley back into the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to loosen it and create a silky texture. Season the dish with salt and black pepper to your taste.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
This dish is best enjoyed right away while it’s warm, fragrant, and bursting with bright flavors. Don’t forget to sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese on top for that ultimate finishing touch.
How to Serve Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe, fresh garnishes are essential. Scatter more chopped parsley for that fresh, green pop, and add an extra twist of lemon zest or thin lemon slices on the side for guests who want an extra citrus hit. A light dusting of grated Parmesan rounds it all out beautifully.
Side Dishes
This bright and flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Think fresh, crisp green salads dressed lightly with vinaigrette or classic garlic bread that soaks up every last drop of the lemony sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement the seafood and citrus notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress visually, serve the Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe in shallow bowls with shrimp artfully arranged on top and parsley sprinkled as a final flourish. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few red pepper flakes scattered on top adds a pop of color. You could also plate individual portions with a lemon wedge on the side for squeeze-at-will brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will settle and deepen, though the pasta might absorb some sauce overnight.
Freezing
While it’s best savored fresh, you can freeze any leftover Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe in a sealed container for up to one month. Keep in mind the pasta texture may soften slightly after thawing, so freezing is ideal only if you’re in a pinch.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw if frozen and warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s silky consistency and stir frequently to prevent sticking or drying out. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure a nice sear.
What can I substitute for white wine in the sauce?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth or even vegetable broth works beautifully and keeps the sauce flavorful without alcohol.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make this Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe gluten-free, simply swap out regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, or spinach are great additions that add color, texture, and additional nutrients.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes provide a gentle heat that enhances the flavors without overwhelming the palate. Feel free to adjust the amount to your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way the flavors come together in this Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe — fresh lemon, succulent shrimp, and garlicky goodness in every bite. It’s quick, elegant, and absolutely satisfying. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it just might become your ultimate weeknight favorite or go-to dish for sharing with friends and family. Happy cooking!
Print
Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free if using gluten-free pasta
Description
This Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp is a bright and flavorful Italian-inspired main course that combines al dente pasta with juicy, sautéed shrimp, zesty lemon, garlic, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. Finished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan, it’s a quick and elegant weeknight dinner perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti
Shrimp & Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
To Serve
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta thoroughly.
- Sauté the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and spices: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
- Deglaze and simmer sauce: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth along with the lemon juice. Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Finish the sauce: Lower the heat to low and stir in the butter until melted and the sauce becomes silky.
- Toss pasta and shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the sauce needs loosening.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or include some sundried tomatoes.
- You can substitute zucchini noodles or whole wheat spaghetti for regular pasta to vary textures or boost nutrition.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or some crispy garlic bread for a complete meal.
