Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Feel free to swap the spaghetti for whole wheat pasta or even zucchini noodles if you’re looking for a lighter option. The same goes for the shrimp—use frozen if fresh isn’t available, just ensure they’re properly thawed before cooking.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- To the same skillet, add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
One tip I learned from my grandmother is to always taste as you go. It’s the best way to ensure the flavors are balanced and just right for your family’s preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International