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Easy Garlic Butter Pasta with Frozen Shrimp and Lemon Zest

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A quick and delicious dinner recipe featuring garlic butter pasta with frozen shrimp and fresh lemon zest, ready in under 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting yet simple meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons (about 60 grams) unsalted butter
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (optional but recommended)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil or 2 tablespoons butter. Add the frozen shrimp directly into the pan—no need to thaw ahead. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside. If shrimp cook unevenly, cover the pan for a minute to help them steam through.
  3. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium-low and add 2 tablespoons butter. When melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the garlic butter. Add the drained pasta and pour in about 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat everything evenly. Toss gently with tongs to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the zest of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Toss again until everything is well mixed and glossy.
  6. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and buttery.

Notes

Cook shrimp gently over medium heat to avoid rubbery texture. Avoid browning garlic to prevent bitterness. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Fresh lemon zest added at the end keeps flavor bright. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil. Gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles can be used as alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter pasta, frozen shrimp, lemon zest, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, weeknight meal, seafood pasta

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/easy-garlic-butter-pasta-with-frozen-shrimp-and-lemon-zest-recipe-for-quick-delicious-dinner/