Lemon zest shrimp over spaghetti

Lemon Zest Shrimp over Spaghetti combines succulent shrimp with the bright flavors of lemon zest and garlic, creating a refreshing seafood pasta dish. Simple and quick to prepare, it's perfect for a gourmet meal at home.

27 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

10 oz pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
2 lemons
8 oz shrimps
1 tsp garlic
1 tsp black pepper
2 tsp grated parmesan cheese

Welcome to our delightful Lemon Zest Shrimp over Spaghetti recipe! This dish combines succulent shrimp with the citrusy brightness of lemon zest, creating a refreshing and satisfying meal. Not only is it simple to make, but it also offers a gourmet experience right in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this seafood delight and bring a zesty twist to your dinner table.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Typically, this will take about 8-10 minutes.
3. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Lemon and Shrimp:
1. While the pasta is cooking, zest the lemons and set the zest aside.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice into a small bowl.
3. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.

3. Cook the Shrimp:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp in a single layer.
3. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

4. Prepare the Sauce:
1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter.
2. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the lemon zest and juice, black pepper, and the reserved pasta water. Stir to combine.

5. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce.
2. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently mix until everything is well combined and heated through.

6. Finish and Serve:
1. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top.
2. Toss everything together once more to evenly distribute the cheese.
3. Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

7. Serve:
1. Divide the pasta and shrimp among serving plates.
2. Enjoy the Lemon Zest Shrimp over Spaghetti immediately while hot.

There you have it – a delectable Lemon Zest Shrimp over Spaghetti that brings together vibrant citrus flavors and tender shrimp. This dish is perfect for a regular weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy your culinary creation with a sprinkle of parmesan and perhaps a glass of white wine. Bon appétit!

Lemon zest shrimp over spaghetti FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the shrimp?

Shrimp should be cooked for about 2 minutes on each side in a skillet, or until they are pink and opaque, typically taking around 4-5 minutes in total.

What type of pasta can I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta for this recipe, but spaghetti is traditional. Alternatives include linguine, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.

Can I substitute fresh lemon juice for bottled lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute in a pinch. However, the taste may differ slightly.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out.

What can I use instead of parmesan cheese?

If you need a substitute for parmesan cheese, you can use grated pecorino, nutritional yeast for a vegan option, or simply omit it if desired.

Tips:

- Use fresh shrimp and fresh lemon zest for the best flavors.

- Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid becoming rubbery.

- Keep a cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

- Consider adding fresh parsley or basil for extra flavor and color.

- Serve the dish right after cooking to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 1510kcal
Protein 70g
Carbohydrates 240g
Fiber 16g
Sugar 13g
Fat 60g

Lemon zest shrimp over spaghetti