Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to my favorite one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta. This dish is not just a dinner; it’s a celebration of bright, zesty flavors that come together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Imagine the aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with fresh lemon and succulent shrimp; it’s simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz spaghetti: Feel free to use any pasta you love, but I find spaghetti works perfectly with the sauce.
- 1 lb shrimp: Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy cooking. I love using large shrimp for that juicy bite!
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced, of course! Garlic brings such a lovely aroma and flavor.
- 1 lemon: You’ll need both the juice and zest. It brightens up the dish like nothing else.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Extra virgin is my go-to for that rich flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds depth to the sauce; you can use low sodium if you prefer.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Just enough to give it a little kick! Adjust to your taste.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, but don’t be shy with the seasoning!
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, for that gorgeous garnish and fresh flavor.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to whip up a delightful dinner that’ll impress everyone at the table!
How to Prepare One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Let’s get cooking! This one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta comes together in a flash, and it’s all about keeping things simple and delicious. Here’s how to do it:
- First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not smoking!
- Next, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté them for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
- Now, add in your shrimp. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re done, remove them from the pan and set aside. This step is crucial to keep them tender!
- In the same pan, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, along with the juice and zest of your lemon. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil—oh, that smell!
- Once boiling, add your 8 ounces of spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- When the pasta is just right, return the shrimp to the pan and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. You’re ready to enjoy a delightful, zesty meal!
And there you have it! A quick, one-pan dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can whip this up in just 25 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss!
- One Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze! Less time scrubbing dishes means more time enjoying your meal.
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of lemon, garlic, and shrimp creates a bright, zesty dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s like a taste of sunshine on your plate!
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the shrimp and plenty of fresh ingredients, this dish is a nutritious choice that won’t weigh you down.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the garlic and spice levels to suit your taste. Want it milder? Go easy on the red pepper flakes!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This pasta can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store leftovers in the fridge for a quick lunch the next day!
Tips for Success
Ready to make this one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta even better? Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on your shrimp! They only need about 3-4 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery, and trust me, nobody wants that!
- Adjust to Your Taste: If you love garlic (who doesn’t?), feel free to add an extra clove or two! The same goes for the lemon—add more juice or zest if you’re feeling zesty!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic really elevate this dish. If you can, avoid bottled lemon juice; the fresh stuff makes a world of difference.
- Watch the Pasta: Stir your spaghetti occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking together. You want that beautiful al dente texture, so taste it a minute or two before the package says it’s done!
- Reserve Some Pasta Water: If your pasta seems a bit dry, save a little bit of that starchy pasta water to add back to the pan. It can help create a silkier sauce that clings perfectly to your noodles.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish. Don’t skimp on it; it really brightens everything up!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress anyone who joins you for dinner. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta is how easily you can mix things up! Here are some fun variations to try that will keep your taste buds dancing:
- Herb Swap: Instead of parsley, try fresh basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile. Both herbs bring a unique freshness that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and lemon.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit more heat, add diced jalapeños or switch to a spicier chili flake blend. You can also try a pinch of smoked paprika for a warm, smoky flavor.
- Pasta Choices: While spaghetti is classic, you can experiment with other pasta types like fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Gluten-free pasta works great too!
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini noodles to add more veggies to the mix. They’ll add color and nutrition, plus they cook quickly!
- Creamy Twist: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese right before serving. It’ll give the dish a luxurious creaminess that’s just divine.
- Seafood Medley: Feel free to substitute shrimp with scallops or add a mix of seafood like mussels or clams for a seafood feast! Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
These variations make it easy to keep this dish exciting and tailored to your preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative—each twist brings its own delicious charm!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! This one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta is not only a delight to your taste buds, but it also packs a decent nutritional punch. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (this is just an estimate, so keep in mind that actual values can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes):
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
This dish is a great source of protein thanks to the shrimp, and the carbs from the pasta give you that needed energy. Plus, with all those fresh ingredients, you’re getting a nice boost of vitamins too! Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing you’re fueling your body well!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp can be just as tasty and convenient, so don’t hesitate to use them if that’s what you have on hand!
What can I serve with one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty garlic bread. You could also add a side of roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal. Yum!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some of the ingredients in advance. Chop your garlic, zest your lemon, and even have your shrimp ready to go. Just cook it all up right before you’re ready to eat!
How do I store leftovers?
Simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap out the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of fantastic options out there that will work perfectly with this lemon garlic shrimp sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers? No worries! This one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta stores beautifully, and I’ll show you how to keep it fresh and tasty. To store your delicious pasta, just let it cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent it from drying out!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze! Just pop it into a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or a tiny drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist and flavorful. Stir gently until everything is warmed through—this should take just a few minutes. If you find it’s a little too dry, you can always add a bit more broth or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that zesty kick!
And there you have it! Enjoy your scrumptious pasta again, as if it were freshly made. Trust me, it’s just as delightful the second time around!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this amazing one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete and satisfying meal! Here are a few delicious ideas:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, crusty garlic bread! It’s perfect for mopping up that zesty lemon garlic sauce. Just the thought makes my mouth water!
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the pasta. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together!
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini with olive oil and roast them until tender. They bring color and nutrients to your plate!
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is a great option that pairs well with the flavors of the pasta. It’s healthy, vibrant, and adds that nice green touch!
- Wine Pairing: If you enjoy a glass of wine, a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements this dish beautifully, enhancing the lemony goodness!
With these sides, you’ll create a lovely, well-rounded dinner that’ll impress your family or guests. Enjoy every bite of this delightful meal!
Imprimer
One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It
- Temps Total: 25 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Calories
Description
A quick and easy one pan dish featuring shrimp and pasta in a lemon garlic sauce.
Ingrédients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same pan, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest.
- Bring to a boil, then add spaghetti.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Return shrimp to the pan and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Adjust garlic and lemon to taste.
- This dish can be served warm or cold.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 15 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 12g
- Graisses Saturées: 2g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 50g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 25g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 200mg
Mots-clés: one pan lemon garlic shrimp pasta
