Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Italian extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
- 1 whole bulb of garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Pecorino Romano cheese (to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Season the shrimp: Season the shrimp with a bit of salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of EVOO over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining EVOO. Add the minced garlic, shallots, capers, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the garlic and shallots become aromatic.
- Add lemon zest and juice: Stir in the zest and juice of the lemon. This will add a bright and tangy flavor to the sauce.
- Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. If the pasta seems a bit dry, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta.
- Reincorporate the shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet to heat through and infuse them with the flavors of the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. You can also adjust the level of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Serve: Serve the Lemon Pepper Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
Here are some additional tips and variations for your Lemon Pepper Shrimp Pasta:
Variations:
- Veggies: You can add some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to add more color and nutrients to the dish.
- Protein: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can use chicken or even tofu as a protein alternative. Cook them in a similar manner as the shrimp.
- Creamy Version: If you prefer a creamy sauce, you can add a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce after sautéing the garlic and shallots. Simmer it for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Linguine with Clams: Swap out the shrimp for fresh clams to make a delicious linguine with clam sauce.
Tips:
- Pasta Water: When you reserve pasta water, it’s a handy tool to adjust the sauce’s consistency. It contains starch that can help thicken the sauce and make it cling to the pasta better.
- Garlic and Shallots: Be careful not to brown the garlic and shallots when sautéing them. Browning can make them taste bitter. Cook just until they’re fragrant.
- Fresh Parsley: Fresh herbs like parsley are best added towards the end of cooking to maintain their fresh flavor.
- Serving: For an extra touch, you can serve the dish with additional lemon wedges and extra Pecorino Romano cheese on the side, allowing diners to adjust the flavors to their liking.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements this dish wonderfully.
here are a few more tips and suggestions for your Lemon Pepper Shrimp Pasta:
Presentation:
- To enhance the visual appeal, consider garnishing your dish with some extra lemon zest and a sprig of fresh parsley just before serving.
Additional Flavors:
- If you love the combination of lemon and herbs, consider adding a pinch of fresh thyme or oregano to the sauce for added depth of flavor.
Spice Level:
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred level of spiciness. If you enjoy a milder dish, use less; if you like it spicier, add more.
Leftovers:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat it in a skillet with a touch of olive oil or a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to prevent it from drying out.
Side Salad:
- Pair your Lemon Pepper Shrimp Pasta with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Fresh Ingredients:
- Whenever possible, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The difference in flavor is noticeable, especially with ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil, Pecorino Romano cheese, and fresh herbs.
Family and Friends:
- This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Consider doubling or tripling the recipe for a gathering.
Experiment:
- Cooking is an art, so don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe and make it your own. You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a splash of white wine for a different twist.
Now you have all the tools to make this Lemon Pepper Shrimp Pasta even more delicious and tailored to your taste. Enjoy your culinary adventure! 🍤🍝🍋🧀🌿😋
