Garlic Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti

Name: Garlic Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; Salt for pasta water; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy Meals

I absolutely love making this Garlic Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti whenever I want a dish that's both quick and bursting with flavor. The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic creates a harmony that dances on the palate. It never ceases to amaze me how a few simple ingredients can come together to create such a delightful meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe always impresses, and it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-15T15:38:19.268Z

I've crafted this recipe over the years, perfecting the balance between the garlic and lemon to ensure every bite is packed with deliciousness. I remember the first time I made it for my friends; they were thrilled by how quickly it came together and how fresh it tasted. The key is to sauté the garlic just until it's fragrant, which prevents bitterness and lets the flavor shine.

One little tip I enjoy sharing is to toss the pasta directly in the pan with the shrimp. This not only allows the spaghetti to absorb the garlicky lemon sauce but also ensures that every strand is coated perfectly. It's those small details that elevate a simple meal into something memorable!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The bright citrus notes paired with savory garlic elevate the shrimp perfectly.
It's a one-pan dish that makes cleanup a breeze.
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or pasta.

The Role of Garlic and Lemon

Garlic and lemon are the stars of this dish, each playing a crucial role in building flavor. Garlic brings a rich, savory depth that pairs beautifully with the bright acidity of the lemon. When cooking the garlic in olive oil, aim for a golden hue—cooking until fragrant but not browned helps maintain a sweet, aromatic profile without bitterness. Always remember to add garlic first, as it releases its oils quickly, creating a flavorful base for the shrimp.

Lemon zest adds a vibrant punch that enhances the dish's freshness. Be sure to zest before juicing the lemon, as this ensures you capture all the aromatic oils. The zest acts as a fragrant seasoning, amplifying the lemon juice's acidity in the sauce. If you find yourself without fresh lemons, high-quality bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh zest is irreplaceable for that aromatic kick.

Perfecting the Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is essential for this recipe. Opt for large or extra-large shrimp for a satisfying bite, and always go for fresh or sustainably sourced products when possible. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear and prevent excess moisture from releasing into the dish. Cook the shrimp just until they turn a vibrant pink—overcooking will lead to a rubbery texture, ruining the dish's delicate balance.

To customize your garlic lemon shrimp spaghetti, consider adding vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes. These can be tossed into the skillet at the same time as the shrimp, allowing them to cook just enough to soften while retaining some crunch. This not only enhances the flavor and presentation but also elevates the nutritional value of your dish, making it a more balanced meal.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful meal!

For the Pasta

12 oz spaghetti
Salt for pasta water

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and delicious meal!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add the shrimp, salt, and pepper; cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce. Toss everything together until well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pair this dish with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine when sautéing the shrimp.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prepare this dish in advance, consider cooking the spaghetti and the shrimp separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. For reheating, a quick toss in a skillet with a splash of olive oil and water will bring it back to life, revitalizing the pasta and shrimp without compromising texture. Remember to toss in some additional lemon juice and zest during reheating to brighten up the flavors that might have settled.

However, it's best to avoid cooking the shrimp too far in advance due to its short shelf life and susceptibility to becoming rubbery when reheated. If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge too—just be mindful not to leave them sitting too long. Use them within 1-2 days, and enjoy your delightful dish again.

Scaling Up or Down

This garlic lemon shrimp spaghetti recipe is very flexible and can easily be adjusted for larger or smaller portions. When scaling up, simply increase the quantities of shrimp and spaghetti, maintaining the same ratios of garlic and lemon to keep the flavor balanced. A larger pan like a sauté or pasta pan can help accommodate more ingredients and ensure they cook evenly without overcrowding, which is key for preventing steaming.

For a smaller portion, perhaps for a quick lunch, you can halve the ingredients effectively. Cooking times may slightly reduce, particularly for the pasta, so keep a close eye on it, ensuring it's still cooked al dente. Additionally, using a smaller skillet will allow the shrimp to sear properly, maintaining that delicious caramelized finish that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What type of pasta can I use?

You can substitute with any pasta you like, such as linguine or fettuccine.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes would be fantastic additions.