Shrimp Scampi Pasta With Lemon

Name: Shrimp Scampi Pasta With Lemon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or spaghetti; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Collection

When I make Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Lemon, I feel like I’m treating myself to a little piece of culinary paradise. The burst of garlic and the zing of lemon elevate the succulent shrimp, making each bite a joyful celebration. I love that this dish comes together in just under 30 minutes, allowing me to whip up something delicious even on busy weeknights. The combination of al dente pasta and juicy shrimp tossed in a rich sauce is simply irresistible and has quickly become a favorite in our household.

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:48:52.867Z

Making Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Lemon has become a ritual for me; it’s a dish that translates a simple meal into an elegant one. I remember the first time I prepared it for friends. They couldn’t believe how quickly the flavorful sauce came together! I realized that using fresh ingredients, like finely chopped parsley and freshly squeezed lemon juice, really makes a difference in the taste.

Another tip I swear by is to reserve some of the pasta water after boiling the pasta. It helps to create a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles. It’s all about layering flavors, so I sauté the shrimp just until they turn pink, ensuring they remain tender and succulent in the final dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delightfully zesty lemon flavor paired with rich garlic butter sauce
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner
Succulent shrimp that are cooked to perfection every time

Perfecting Your Shrimp

The success of your Shrimp Scampi Pasta heavily relies on the quality and freshness of the shrimp. Opt for large, wild-caught shrimp if possible, as they deliver superior flavor and texture. When sautéing, ensure the shrimp are arranged in an even layer in the skillet to achieve a nice sear. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—this usually takes 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking leads to a rubbery texture; if they start curling tightly, they're done!

To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for 15-20 minutes before cooking them. A simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice works wonders. This not only infuses the shrimp with zest but also helps them retain moisture during cooking. Just remember to reduce the salt in your dish afterward since the marinade will already add some seasoning.

The Role of White Wine

When making the sauce, the choice of white wine is crucial. A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish perfectly without overpowering the subtle flavors of garlic and lemon. The alcohol in the wine evaporates as it simmers, leaving behind a rich depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste. If you’re avoiding alcohol, a splash of chicken broth or vegetable broth can be a suitable substitute, but the aroma and brightness of wine will be missed.

During the simmering of the wine, watch for it to reduce by about half before adding the lemon juice and zest. This evaporation concentrates the flavors, giving you a more robust sauce. You'll know it's ready when it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This concentrated mixture forms the delicious base that melds beautifully with pasta.

Serving Suggestions

This shrimp scampi pasta is best served immediately for maximum freshness and flavor. When plating, consider sprinkling extra chopped parsley not only for color but to enhance the dish’s herbaceous notes. You can also offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese as an optional topping, adding a nutty richness that pairs well with the zesty sauce. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce; it’s a delightful addition and completes the meal.

For variations, consider adding seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes, which can be lightly sautéed with the shrimp. These add color and additional texture while keeping the dish light and fresh. If you're looking for a spicier twist, toss in diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the red pepper flakes. This will cater to those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz linguine or spaghetti
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup white wine
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Make the Sauce

Pour the white wine into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes, then add the lemon juice and zest. Combine well.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water, mixing until the pasta is coated with the sauce. Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, topped with red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Lemon!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve with crusty bread to soak up the zesty sauce. You can also add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Making Ahead and Storing

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, consider cooking the pasta and shrimp separately and storing them in the refrigerator in airtight containers. You can combine them with the sauce just before serving to maintain the best texture. The cooked pasta may become sticky if stored too long, so a drizzle of olive oil before refrigerating can help prevent that. This way, you'll still enjoy a fresh meal with minimal prep time on busy nights.

While the shrimp scampi pasta is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. Stir occasionally while reheating to ensure even warming.

Variations for Different Diets

To make this recipe lighter, you can substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini or other vegetables, making it a fabulous low-carb option. Just sauté the zucchini noodles briefly before adding the shrimp and sauce to avoid excess moisture in the dish. The lemon and garlic flavors still shine through, keeping the essence of shrimp scampi intact without the carbs.

If you're following a dairy-free diet, simply omit the Parmesan cheese from the serving. You can enhance the richness of the dish using nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor without any dairy. This tiny substitution allows everyone to enjoy a creamy-tasting dish without compromising dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

→ What other pasta can I use?

You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options.

→ Is there a substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a non-alcoholic option.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance. Cook the pasta and shrimp just before serving for optimal taste.