Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp is like a sunny hug on your plate, bursting with zesty flavors that dance on your taste buds. Picture perfectly cooked fettuccine coated in a bright, lemony sauce, paired with succulent garlic shrimp that practically sing as they hit the pan. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve just transported yourself to a sun-soaked Italian terrace.
This delightful recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. I remember the first time I made Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp for my friends; we laughed so hard we almost forgot to eat! The aroma wafting through the kitchen was so tempting that we could barely wait for it to be done. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish promises to impress and delight.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The vibrant flavors create a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Its stunning presentation makes it ideal for special occasions or date nights.
- Plus, you can easily tweak ingredients based on what you have at home!
Ingredients for Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fettuccine Pasta: Use fresh or dried fettuccine; fresh adds a lovely texture while dried is great for convenience.
- Shrimp: Opt for large, peeled shrimp; they cook quickly and soak up flavor beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here; its aromatic qualities elevate the dish.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Brightens up the dish and gives it that refreshing zing; use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds creaminess and depth; please don’t even think about using the powdered stuff.
For the Seasoning:
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors; season to taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little kick; adjust based on your heat preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil. Once hot, add in the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant (about one minute). Toss in your shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook them until they turn pink—typically around three minutes per side.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Remove the shrimp from the skillet once cooked. In that same skillet, add lemon juice and zest along with some reserved pasta water. Stir well and let simmer for about two minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return your drained fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined—add more pasta water if needed to create a silky sauce.
Step 5: Finish It Off
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top along with additional lemon zest if desired. Give everything one last toss to coat evenly.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates and garnish with parsley if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy your Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp while reminiscing about all those laugh-filled kitchen moments.
And there you have it! A delightful bowl of Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp that’s sure to elevate any occasion while filling your heart (and stomach) with joy!
You Must Know
- This delightful Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp combines zesty flavors and creamy textures, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- The dish is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable for any occasion, from casual dinners to elegant gatherings.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add the shrimp for a quick sear. While the shrimp cooks, boil your fettuccine al dente. Finally, combine everything with a splash of lemon juice and zest for a burst of flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or vegetables if you’re looking for alternatives. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the freshness of your dish. Don’t forget to adjust the lemon to your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to avoid drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled varieties won’t do this recipe justice.
- Cook pasta just until al dente so it holds its shape and texture better.
- For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese.
The first time I made Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a bite! Their reactions were priceless and motivated me to perfect my technique ever since.
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp?
To make Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp, you will need fresh fettuccine pasta, shrimp, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley. Additionally, gathering salt and pepper to taste will enhance the dish’s flavor. You may also choose to add grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste. Fresh ingredients will elevate your dish and provide the best results.
How long does it take to prepare Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp?
Preparing Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Cooking the pasta usually takes around 10-12 minutes while sautéing the shrimp and garlic may take about 5-7 minutes. The quick preparation time makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties without compromising on flavor.
Can I customize Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can customize Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp by adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes. For those who prefer a different protein, substituting shrimp with chicken or scallops works well too. Feel free to experiment to suit your palate!
Is Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp is suitable for meal prep! You can cook the pasta and shrimp in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply reheat them together and add fresh lemon juice and parsley for that vibrant flavor. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal throughout the week!
Conclusion for Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp
Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and simple ingredients. With just a few essential items, you can create a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. The bright lemon zest paired with garlic-infused shrimp elevates this pasta dish to new heights. Whether you’re customizing it or preparing it for meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Enjoy this vibrant Lemon Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp, where zesty lemon and succulent shrimp create a delightful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Once hot, add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until pink, around 3 minutes per side.
- 3. Prepare the Sauce: Remove cooked shrimp from the skillet. In the same skillet, add lemon juice and zest along with reserved pasta water. Stir well and simmer for about 2 minutes.
- 4. Combine Everything: Return drained fettuccine and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined; add more pasta water if needed for a silky sauce.
- 5. Finish It Off: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and toss again to coat evenly.
- 6. Serve: Transfer to plates and garnish with parsley if desired!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider swapping shrimp for chicken or vegetables. Fresh lemon juice is essential for the best taste; avoid bottled varieties. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
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