Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

A vibrant dish that combines fresh shrimp with a zesty lemon garlic sauce over al dente pasta strands.

This recipe for Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful dinner party. The combination of flavors—fresh lemon, fragrant garlic, and succulent shrimp—creates an exciting palette of tastes that complement each other beautifully. Here’s how you can prepare it:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) medium shrimp
• 8 ounces (225g) penne pasta or any noodle of your choice
• 3 large lemons, juiced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Time: 35 minutes, including prep time and cooking the pasta.

Servings: Serves 4 as a main course or 6 as part of a smaller meal with side dishes like a green salad.

Step-by-Step Guide

To start, prepare your shrimp by peeling and deveining them. You can use pre-cooked shrimp if you prefer less prep time. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for cooking the pasta. Add the penne or your chosen noodle, and follow the package instructions until al dente.

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Add the lemon juice and cook for another couple of minutes to reduce slightly and infuse with the flavors. This will help balance the acidity.

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon zest (optional), and chopped parsley to the pan. Stir well to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Keep warm while your pasta is draining.

Once the pasta is cooked, strain it, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later. Toss the hot pasta into the pan with the sauce to coat thoroughly. If needed, add a little bit of reserved pasta water to create the perfect consistency. It should be creamy but not too runny.

Transfer your perfectly balanced dish to serving plates. Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Health Benefits

This dish is packed with nutrients beneficial for health. Shrimp are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health. The lemons provide vitamin C, essential for skin and immune support. Garlic has antimicrobial properties that help fight off illnesses. Whole grains like pasta are excellent sources of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.

Additionally, the dish is low in calories per serving compared to other richer pasta dishes, making it an ideal choice for those watching their waistline while still enjoying delicious food.

Variations

If you want to vary this recipe slightly, consider adding some vegetables like baby spinach or asparagus. For a more substantial meal, add chicken or another protein of your preference. You could also experiment with different types of pasta; perhaps try spiral-cut for a unique presentation.

Conclusion

The Perfectly Balanced Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not just about taste but also about creating a balanced plate that includes essential nutrients. Its quick preparation time makes it accessible even on busy days, while its delicious flavor profile ensures satisfaction every single bite. Try this recipe today and experience the fresh flavors of lemon, garlic, and shrimp coming together in harmony to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Enjoy your meal!