Simple and Delicious Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a popular dish that combines the tangy freshness of lemon with the richness of garlic to create an exquisite flavor profile. This simple yet delicious meal can be prepared in approximately 20 minutes, serving four people.

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 24 ounces (about 6 cups) penne pasta
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

To start, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic cloves and sauté until they become fragrant and slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.

1. Add the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the pot. Stir well to combine with the garlic for at least a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain thoroughly after cooking.
3. In another frying pan over medium heat, add the shrimp in batches. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; this will ensure even cooking.

Once the pasta is fully cooked and drained, set aside half of it for serving. In the same pot used earlier, add the shrimp along with any juices or butter left in the frying pan. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly.

4. Add the heavy cream to the mixture and let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
5. Combine the shrimp, pasta, and lemon garlic cream sauce into a large bowl or directly back onto the stove top if using a skillet. Toss everything together so that every piece of pasta is evenly coated in the rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra burst of freshness (optional). Serve immediately while hot; this dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or garlic bread on the side. You can also offer additional Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over individual servings if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes during cooking for added heat.
• If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce or omit the heavy cream and instead use more garlic for a stronger flavor.

This versatile lemon garlic shrimp pasta can be adapted to fit various dietary needs. For those looking to make it vegetarian-friendly, simply leave out the shrimp altogether and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.