One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. This recipe combines tender linguine, succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and vibrant spinach, all brought together with a zesty lemony twist. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pot ensures easy preparation and minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends and family.
Recipe: One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz linguine (225 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 ¼ lb large shrimp (570 g), peeled and deveined
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 cups baby spinach (160 g)
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated (25 g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Preparation:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Begin by cooking the linguine in a large pot of boiling salted water until it is al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same pot used for cooking the pasta, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until the butter has melted.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly until the garlic becomes fragrant, which typically takes about 1 minute.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the pot, season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook the shrimp, stirring frequently, until they start to turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Spinach and Pasta:
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook until it wilts, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the cooked linguine to the pot with the shrimp and spinach mixture. Add the remaining butter, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together until the butter melts and all ingredients are well combined.
- Finish with Lemon Juice:
- Once the shrimp are fully cooked and the pasta is heated through, drizzle lemon juice over the dish. Give it a final toss to incorporate all the flavors.
- Serve:
- Plate the One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with additional parsley or parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this delicious seafood pasta dish.
Conclusion:
One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta exemplifies simplicity and flavor in a single dish, perfect for any occasion. From its savory garlic and buttery shrimp to the refreshing hint of lemon and the earthy spinach, every bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This recipe not only satisfies the palate but also appeals to those seeking a balanced and wholesome meal. Whether prepared for a quick weeknight dinner or as a centerpiece for a gathering, this dish promises to impress with its ease of preparation and delightful flavors. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this one-pot wonder, bringing the essence of coastal cuisine right to your dinner table.