Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Bright, zesty, and bursting with flavor, this Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner or weekend treat. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice, then tossed with pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a touch of parmesan. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table in under 30 minutes.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the pasta:
8 oz (225g) linguine or spaghetti
Salt (for pasta water)
For the shrimp:
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the final dish:
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp:
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat shrimp. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
In the same skillet, add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water, tossing to coat. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Return shrimp to the pan, add fresh herbs, and toss everything together.
Finish and Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and lemon wedges on the side.
TIPS:
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Fresh lemon juice, herbs, and garlic make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:
Shrimp cook quickly—usually just 1–2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
Reserve Pasta Water:
This starchy liquid helps emulsify the sauce, making it silkier and helping it cling to the pasta.
Zest Before Juicing:
It’s much easier to zest a lemon before cutting it open for juice.
Add Cheese Last:
Parmesan is optional and should be added off the heat to avoid clumping or curdling.
Balance the Acidity:
If your lemons are very tart, balance the flavor with a small drizzle of honey or a splash of cream.
VARIATIONS:
Herb Swap:
Instead of parsley and basil, try dill, oregano, or mint for a different Mediterranean flavor.
Creamy Version:
Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese after adding pasta water to create a creamy lemon-garlic sauce.
Add-Ins:
Kalamata olives, capers, or sun-dried tomatoes add salty and tangy notes.
Baby spinach or kale can be tossed in with the pasta to wilt slightly and add nutrients.
Deglaze with Wine:
Add 1/4 cup of dry white wine after cooking garlic for extra depth and complexity. Let it reduce before adding shrimp.
Swap the Protein:
Use scallops, grilled chicken, or even chickpeas for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.
Low-Carb/Keto Option:
Replace pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash.
Spicy Kick:
Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a bold, spicy version.
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.
Q: What kind of pasta works best?
A: Linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair are all great choices. For a heartier bite, try fettuccine or even penne.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance (like marinating shrimp, chopping garlic/herbs). Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: It can be! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Just skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Serves 4)
Note: Estimates may vary depending on portion sizes and ingredient brands.
Calories: ~430
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: ~700mg
Cholesterol: ~200mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant, fresh, and easy-to-make meal that brings bold coastal flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or craving something light yet satisfying, this dish delivers. With flexible variations and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for any night of the week.
Serve it with a side of crusty bread, a glass of white wine, and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean—right at home.