Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi with Fresh Angel Hair Pasta: A Vibrant, Flavorful Dish

Have you ever tasted a meal so fresh, vibrant, and comforting that it feels like a vacation to the Mediterranean? Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi with Fresh Angel Hair Pasta delivers that magic in every bite. Imagine juicy, tender shrimp coated in a buttery garlic-lemon sauce, tossed with perfectly al dente angel hair pasta. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is easy enough to whip up in just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re planning a date night, hosting a dinner party, or treating yourself to something special, this shrimp scampi recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the steps, ingredients, and tips to help you create this restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi

Here’s why this recipe will win a permanent spot in your meal rotation:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Bursting with Flavor: The garlic butter sauce, tangy lemon, and savory Parmesan create an irresistible combination.
• Healthy Yet Indulgent: Packed with protein from shrimp and fresh ingredients, this dish feels indulgent without being heavy.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe with extra vegetables or your favorite pasta.
• Elegant Presentation: It looks and tastes like it came straight from a high-end restaurant.

Ingredients for Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi with Fresh Angel Hair Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Jumbo shrimp (peeled, cleaned)	2 pounds	The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy bites.
Butter	4 tablespoons	Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
Olive oil	2 tablespoons	Helps cook the shrimp and adds depth to the flavor.
Garlic (minced)	4 cloves	Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.
White wine	1 cup	Adds acidity and enhances the overall flavor.
Lemon juice	2 tablespoons	Adds brightness and tang to the sauce.
Lemon zest	Zest of 1 lemon	Amplifies the lemony flavor in the dish.
Grated Parmesan cheese	4 tablespoons	Adds nutty, salty richness to the sauce.
Fresh parsley (chopped)	3 tablespoons	Provides freshness and a pop of color.
Cherry tomatoes (sliced)	5	Adds sweetness and visual appeal.
Salt	To taste	Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Black pepper	To taste	Adds mild heat and depth to the flavor.
Fresh angel hair pasta	As needed	The perfect light and tender base for the dish.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi

1. Prepare the Angel Hair Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the fresh angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions. Fresh pasta cooks quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes.
• Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set it aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the cleaned shrimp to the skillet and season them with salt and pepper.
• Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook.
• Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

3. Make the Garlic Lemon Sauce

• In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat.
• Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
• Add the white wine, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.

4. Combine the Ingredients

• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat.
• Add the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and sliced cherry tomatoes. Stir gently to combine and heat through.

5. Add the Pasta

• Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the garlic lemon butter sauce.

6. Adjust Seasoning

• Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Transfer the shrimp scampi and pasta to serving plates.
• Garnish with extra fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant finishing touch.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this dish!

What Makes This Dish Special?

1. The Sauce

The garlic lemon butter sauce is the heart of this recipe. It’s rich yet light, with a perfect balance of acidity from the lemon and creaminess from the butter.

2. The Shrimp

Using jumbo shrimp ensures each bite is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. The shrimp absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

3. Fresh Pasta

Angel hair pasta is light, delicate, and perfect for absorbing the sauce without overpowering the dish.

Nutritional Highlights

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

Nutrient	Source	Benefit
Protein	Shrimp, Parmesan	Supports muscle growth and repair.
Healthy Fats	Olive oil, butter	Provides energy and supports heart health.
Antioxidants	Garlic, parsley	Boosts immunity and reduces inflammation.
Vitamins	Lemon, cherry tomatoes	Improves skin health and strengthens immunity.
Carbohydrates	Angel hair pasta	Provides sustained energy for the body.

Tips for Perfecting Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, pasta, and herbs will elevate the flavor of this dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them while cooking.
3. Deglaze with Wine: Use a dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to add depth to the sauce.
4. Adjust the Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it’s too thick.
5. Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, asparagus, or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.

FAQs About Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp in cold water before using, and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

2. What can I substitute for white wine?

You can replace white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.

3. Can I use dried pasta instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use vegan butter and skip the Parmesan cheese, or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

6. What pairs well with shrimp scampi?

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine.

Why You Should Make Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi Tonight

Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi with Fresh Angel Hair Pasta is the ultimate combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and comforting textures. It’s quick, easy, and versatile, making it the perfect recipe for any occasion. With its bright, zesty sauce and tender shrimp, this dish will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean.

Make It Tonight!

Ready to elevate your dinner game? Gather your ingredients and make Garlic Lemon Shrimp Scampi with Fresh Angel Hair Pasta tonight. Whether it’s a casual family meal or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy!

Print