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There’s something truly satisfying about a dish that’s both elegant and effortless—and that’s exactly what this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta delivers. With tender shrimp bathed in a rich, garlicky lemon butter sauce, this meal comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even special occasions like Easter.
The balance of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and velvety butter creates a flavor-packed experience that feels indulgent yet light. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a crowd-pleasing dish to impress guests, this pasta is a winner. Plus, with simple swaps, you can easily make it low-carb, keto-friendly, or Whole30-compliant.
Ready to bring a restaurant-quality meal to your table with minimal effort? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta checks all the boxes. It’s the kind of dish that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together in just 20 minutes—perfect for weeknights, date nights, or even a festive Easter gathering.
Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation:
- Fast & Easy: From prep to plate, you’ll have a complete meal in no time.
- Big on Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh lemon creates a rich yet refreshing sauce that coats every bite.
- Versatile & Adaptable: Make it with linguine for a classic touch or swap in zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Healthy & Nourishing: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients, it’s easy to make this meal keto, paleo, or Whole30-friendly.
- One-Pan Simplicity: Cook everything in one skillet, cutting down on cleanup while maximizing flavor.
Whether you’re serving this for a cozy dinner at home or looking for a dish to brighten up your Easter table, this shrimp pasta delivers both comfort and elegance with minimal effort.
What You’ll Need
This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta comes together with simple, fresh ingredients, most of which you may already have in your kitchen. Below is the essential ingredient list, along with healthy swaps to fit various dietary needs.
Main Ingredients
- Pasta – Use linguine or your favorite pasta. For a low-carb option, swap with zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or shirataki noodles.
- Shrimp – Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best for a juicy bite. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work.
- Butter – Adds richness to the sauce. Use ghee for Whole30 or olive oil for a lighter version.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses bold flavor into the sauce.
- Lemon – Both zest and juice provide a bright, citrusy balance.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Seasonings & Pantry Staples
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning shrimp and pasta.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a gentle heat to balance the flavors.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) – For a classic, savory finish. Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
- Olive Oil – Can be used to sauté shrimp if you prefer a butter-free version.
Optional Additions
- Cherry Tomatoes – Adds a burst of sweetness and color.
- Baby Spinach – Wilts beautifully into the pasta for extra nutrients.
- White Wine – A splash of dry white wine enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
With these ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s flavorful, satisfying, and easily adaptable to your dietary needs.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, satisfying meal. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve the best flavor and texture.
1. Cook the Pasta (or Low-Carb Alternative)
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook linguine or your preferred pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- If using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash, skip boiling—simply sauté them in a pan with a bit of olive oil for 1–2 minutes until just tender.
- Drain pasta (if using) and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking.
- Season with salt and black pepper for a balanced flavor.
3. Sauté the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp become rubbery.
- Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.
4. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (but not browned).
- Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using) for a kick of spice.
- If using, deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Add the drained pasta (or low-carb noodles) and gently toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra lemon juice to loosen it up.
6. Garnish & Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
- If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese or a dairy-free alternative.
- Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
This one-pan meal is simple, elegant, and packed with zesty, buttery goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Easter!
Tips & Tricks
Mastering this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta is all about timing, ingredient balance, and small tweaks that elevate the dish. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or a special Easter gathering, these tips will help you get the best results every time.
1. Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
- Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cook fast—just 2–3 minutes per side. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat to prevent toughness.
- Pat Shrimp Dry Before Cooking: This ensures a good sear and prevents steaming.
- Cook in a Single Layer: Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking. If needed, cook shrimp in batches.
2. Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Make-Ahead Sauce: The lemon garlic butter sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before tossing with shrimp and pasta.
- Freezer-Friendly Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water. Pat dry before cooking.
- Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on low heat with a splash of water or extra lemon juice to revive the sauce.
- Not Recommended for Freezing: While shrimp freeze well, the butter sauce may separate when thawed.
3. Easy Variations for Extra Flavor
- Boost Nutrition with Greens: Add baby spinach or kale at the end for a nutrient-packed twist. The heat from the pasta will wilt the greens perfectly.
- Add a Pop of Color: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes for sweetness and a vibrant touch.
- Mushroom Lover’s Option: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding the garlic for a richer, earthy flavor.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream for a velvety texture.
- Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
4. Serving Ideas for Every Occasion
- For a Casual Dinner: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a cozy meal.
- For an Easter Spread: Garnish with edible flowers or fresh herbs for an elegant touch. Pair with a light asparagus side dish or roasted carrots to keep it festive.
- For a Low-Carb Version: Skip the pasta and use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a keto-friendly alternative.
These simple tricks help customize the dish to your taste and occasion, whether it’s a quick meal or a special celebration.
Why It’s Healthy
This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta is more than just a flavorful dish—it’s a nutrient-packed meal that balances protein, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients to keep you feeling satisfied without the heaviness of traditional pasta dishes. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or as a lighter alternative to classic Easter meals, here’s why it’s a smart choice:
1. High-Quality Protein from Shrimp
- Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall health.
- They’re naturally low in calories but high in nutrients like selenium and B vitamins, which support energy levels.
2. Healthy Fats for Satiety
- Butter and ghee provide rich flavor and healthy fats that keep you full and satisfied.
- Olive oil is an option for those looking for a heart-healthy, dairy-free alternative with anti-inflammatory benefits.
3. Naturally Low-Carb & Gluten-Free Options
- By swapping pasta for zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or shirataki noodles, this dish easily fits into keto, Whole30, and paleo lifestyles.
- Even with traditional pasta, the shrimp and sauce keep it balanced, offering a protein-rich, nutrient-dense meal.
4. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients for Flavor & Wellness
- Lemon juice & zest provide a natural source of vitamin C, supporting immunity and digestion.
- Garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that benefit heart health.
- Fresh parsley adds a boost of vitamins A and K, along with a bright, fresh finish.
5. A Lighter, Balanced Option for Easter
Easter meals are often rich and indulgent, but this dish offers a fresh and flavorful balance that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. The zesty lemon butter sauce provides just the right amount of indulgence while keeping things light and wholesome.
Whether you’re looking for a weekday favorite or a healthier option for your Easter table, this dish proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for nutrition.
You Might Also Like
If you enjoyed this Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta, here are a few more delicious and wholesome recipes to try next:
🔹 Exquisite Lobster Bisque with Saffron Infusion – A Rich Treat
A luxurious, creamy seafood bisque with delicate saffron notes—perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion.
🔹 Effortless Veggie Omelette Roll for a Stress-Free Easter Brunch
A light, protein-packed brunch idea featuring a fluffy omelette rolled with vibrant veggies—great for Easter or any morning gathering.
🔹 Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken – Pure Comfort
Juicy chicken breasts filled with a rich blend of mushrooms and spinach, all wrapped in a creamy, flavorful sauce.
Looking for more quick, healthy, and satisfying meals? Browse our full recipe collection for more inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
2. What’s the Best Pasta for Low-Carb Diets?
Zucchini noodles (zoodles) – Light, fresh, and quick to cook.
Spaghetti squash – Naturally sweet and holds up well to sauces.
Shirataki noodles – Virtually carb-free and perfect for soaking up the lemon garlic butter sauce.
Hearts of palm pasta – A great gluten-free, low-carb option with a texture similar to linguine.
3. Can I Store & Reheat Leftovers?
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water, broth, or extra lemon juice to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Not recommended for freezing – The butter sauce may separate, and shrimp lose their texture when thawed.
Have another question? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help!
Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta – A Quick 20-Minute Meal
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Mains
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. Juicy shrimp are tossed in a zesty garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon and herbs, making it a perfect choice for weeknights, special occasions, or a light Easter meal. With easy swaps for keto, Whole30, and gluten-free options, this dish is both versatile and satisfying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine (or zucchini noodles for low-carb)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (or ghee for Whole30)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (omit for Whole30)
Seasonings & Pantry Staples
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for a lighter option
- Cherry tomatoes or baby spinach (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta (or Low-Carb Option)
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook linguine until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- For zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash, sauté in a pan with a bit of olive oil for 1-2 minutes until just tender.
2. Season & Cook the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Combine Everything
- Return shrimp to the skillet and toss in the sauce.
- Add pasta (or low-carb noodles) and mix well.
- Adjust seasoning and loosen sauce with a splash of pasta water if needed.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan (if using).
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option: Use olive oil instead of butter and omit Parmesan.
- For a low-carb version: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- For extra flavor: Add cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, or mushrooms.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
Keywords: Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta, garlic butter shrimp, easy shrimp pasta, low-carb shrimp pasta, keto shrimp pasta, quick seafood recipe
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Easy Keto Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta – Perfect Low-Carb Easter Dinner!
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