Bright, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavors, Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp is one of those pasta dishes that feels fancy but comes together in a snap. Tender spaghetti twirls soak up a lemon-kissed sauce while plump, juicy shrimp add a deliciously briny pop. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe brings a little sunshine to your table with every bite.

Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need to make Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp are a handful of everyday ingredients that do heavy lifting when it comes to flavor. Each one brings something to the table: brightness, richness, texture, or color, ensuring every forkful is memorable.

Spaghetti (8 oz): The classic choice for twirling and soaking up all that beautiful sauce.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a luscious mouthfeel and lets the flavors bloom as you sauté.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with irresistible aroma and warmth.
Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Gives just a whisper of heat that plays so well with the lemon.
Large shrimp (1/2 lb, peeled and deveined): Tender, quick-cooking protein that makes this dish feel so special.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the delicate flavors and lets them shine.
Zest of 1 lemon: Provides a fragrant, citrusy punch that lingers beautifully.
Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons): The star ingredient that brightens the entire dish.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a creamy, nutty richness that brings everything together.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A fresh, herby finish that looks as good as it tastes.
Reserved pasta water (1/4 cup): Helps create a silky, glossy sauce that clings to every strand.

How to Make Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente. Don’t forget to scoop out a little pasta water before you drain—it’s liquid gold for your sauce! This step lays down the foundation for the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

While the pasta is cooking, warm the olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, letting them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This simple step perfumes the oil, creating a savory base for the shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Tumble in the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and let them cook for 2–3 minutes per side. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, transfer them to a plate; overcooked shrimp are a tragedy best avoided!

Step 4: Build the Lemon Sauce

With the shrimp set aside, dial the heat to low and pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and a splash of that reserved pasta water. This mingling of citrus and starch is what turns ordinary pasta into Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp magic.

Step 5: Toss Pasta and Cheese

Add the drained spaghetti and Parmesan straight into the skillet, then toss, toss, toss. The cheese melts into the sauce, and everything becomes gloriously coated and creamy. If things look a bit dry, add a touch more pasta water until you reach silky perfection.

Step 6: Bring it Together

Slide the shrimp back into the skillet and give it all one last toss. The shrimp finish cooking gently as they mingle with the pasta and sauce, locking in all that citrusy goodness. A final flourish of parsley takes this Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp over the top in both looks and taste.

How to Serve Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp

Garnishes

A good garnish makes this dish truly irresistible. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan, a shower of freshly chopped parsley, and maybe a few extra grates of lemon zest for even more brightness. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil never hurts either, giving the whole plate a gorgeous glossy finish.

Side Dishes

Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp loves simple, fresh sides. Think a crisp green salad tossed with a citrus vinaigrette, or some lightly roasted asparagus. Don’t forget a hunk of crusty bread to mop up every drop of that luscious sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Take your presentation up a notch by serving the pasta in shallow bowls twirled into little nests, then nestling the shrimp on top. Or pile it high on a large platter family-style—people will love digging in. For a party, try mini portions in ramekins or small cups for an elegant appetizer twist on Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The fresh flavors are still vibrant after a night’s rest, and the shrimp stays tender when handled gently.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp, as the shrimp can get a bit rubbery and the sauce loses its silkiness. If you must, store the cooked pasta and shrimp separately, in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, gently warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen things up. Microwave in short bursts if you’re in a pinch, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use another type Main Course

Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic, linguine, fettuccine, or even short shapes like penne work beautifully with this lemony shrimp sauce. Just adjust the cooking time as needed so the pasta is perfectly al dente.

What can I use instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version?

Skip the Parmesan altogether or use your favorite plant-based cheese alternative. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast also adds a nice savory note if you want to keep things dairy-free.

What kind of shrimp should I buy?

Look for large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience. Fresh or frozen both work; just be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture in Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Toss in a handful of baby spinach or arugula right before serving, or sauté some cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or bell peppers along with the garlic. It’s a great way to add color and extra nutrition.

How do I prevent overcooked shrimp?

Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye and remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque. They’ll finish cooking gently when added back to the pasta, staying juicy and tender.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a light yet satisfying pasta, Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp is a must-try. The bright citrus, juicy shrimp, and silky cheese make every bite a little celebration. Give it a whirl and don’t be surprised if it earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!

Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and light pasta dish, Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp is a refreshing meal that combines the zesty flavors of lemon with succulent shrimp and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti:

8 oz spaghetti

Shrimp:

1/2 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce:

3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup reserved pasta water

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Instructions

Cook the spaghetti: Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
Sauté shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes. Add shrimp, season, and cook until pink. Remove shrimp.
Make the sauce: Lower heat, add lemon juice, zest, and pasta water to the skillet. Toss in drained pasta, Parmesan, and shrimp. Stir to combine.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve.