Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Zesty Seafood Delight

Recipe: Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the paste:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve 1 cup of paste water before draining.
2. Prepare the shrimp:
   • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
   • Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
   • Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Pour in white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
   • Add lemon zest and lemon juice, simmer for another minute.
4. Combine the dish:
   • Add cooked paste to the skillet with the sauce.
   • Toss to coat the pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
   • Add cooked shrimp back to the skillet.
   • Stir in butter and chopped parsley.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Finish and serve:
   • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the paste.
   • Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Tips:

• For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles.
• If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream along with the butter.
• Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can be substituted for parsley.
• Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

This Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a perfect balance of flavors - tangy lemon, spicy red pepper, and rich garlic complement the sweet shrimp and tender pasta. The dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet it's impressive enough for entertaining. The bright, zesty flavors and succulent shrimp transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that's sure to become a family favorite.