Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp

A vibrant and zesty dish, Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp is perfect for any occasion. The bright flavors of lemon combined with succulent shrimp create a meal that feels both refreshing and indulgent. Whether it’s a family dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish will impress your guests while being simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prep and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and garlic creates a bright flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this lemon spaghetti as a main course or serve it as a side dish at your next gathering.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the shrimp and fresh herbs, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this dish visually stunning on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment ensures everything goes smoothly during cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Frying pan
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the spaghetti evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly while retaining its texture.
• Frying pan: Perfect for sautéing shrimp and garlic, allowing flavors to meld together.

Ingredients

A bright and bold lemon spaghetti dish with jumbo garlic, lemon shrimps.

For the Shrimp

• 908 grams large shrimp (shelled and deveined)
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
• 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
• sea salt and freshly ground pepper

For the Pasta

• 454 grams spaghetti
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• lemon zest (from one lemon)
• 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• salt and pepper to your taste (I used fine sea salt)

How to Make Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

1. In a frying pan, heat 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Toss in the large shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Lower the heat, add cooked spaghetti into the frying pan with shrimp.
2. Pour in the lemon juice, reserved pasta water, lemon zest from one lemon, and half of the chopped parsley.
3. Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate your delicious lemon spaghetti with shrimp.
2. Top with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and remaining parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delightful creation! This Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp is sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner!

How to Serve Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp

Serving Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp is an art that enhances the dish’s bright flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving ideas to elevate your meal.

Pairing with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the zesty pasta beautifully.

Adding a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich spaghetti.

Accompanying Wine

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly, enhancing the lemony flavors.

Garnishing Options

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle extra parsley or basil on top for added color and flavor.

Serving with Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Offer freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on the side for guests who enjoy a cheesy finish.

How to Perfect Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp

To achieve the ultimate Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and parsley will enhance the dish’s flavor profile remarkably.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Aim for al dente spaghetti to maintain texture and ensure it holds up well in sauce.
• Sauté Shrimp Just Right: Cook shrimp until they turn pink—overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste as you go; balance salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed; it adds great flavor too.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after cooking for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp

Complement your Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp by serving it alongside these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds a fresh touch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender create a colorful and tasty addition.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring brightness to your plate.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing offers a creamy contrast to the zesty spaghetti.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus spears provide a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with pasta.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, and olives adds variety and richness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Shrimp Preparation: Always ensure your shrimp are properly shelled and deveined before cooking. This makes for a cleaner dish and enhances the flavor.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Be careful not to overcook the spaghetti. It should be al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.

• Using Too Much Oil: While olive oil adds flavor, excessive amounts can make the dish greasy. Measure carefully to maintain a balanced taste.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland pasta. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

• Not Freshening Up the Dish: Using stale or dried herbs instead of fresh parsley can dull the dish’s brightness. Fresh herbs elevate flavors dramatically.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp

• Place cooled spaghetti in a freezer-safe container.
• It will last up to 2 months in the freezer; label with date for reference.

Reheating Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to avoid hot spots.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or extra oil if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp?

Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp is a flavorful dish that combines al dente spaghetti tossed with succulent shrimp, zesty lemon juice, garlic, and fresh parsley. It’s simple yet delicious!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking for even cooking and better texture.

How do I customize Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp?

You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients. Also, try different herbs like basil or cilantro for varied flavor profiles.

What should I serve with Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine complements it beautifully too!

Final Thoughts

Lemon Spaghetti with shrimp is not only bright and refreshing but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give this delightful recipe a try and enjoy its appeal at your next dinner!