Linguine Lemon Butter with Shrimp
Bright, zesty, and luscious, this lemon butter sauce clings to tender linguine and succulent shrimp for a burst of sunshine in every bite.
Total: 25 minPrep: 10 minCook: 15 min4 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (234+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 8 oz linguine
- 12 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Steps
- 1 Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- 2 While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 3 Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side.
- 4 Remove shrimp and set aside.
- 5 In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- 6 Pour in chicken stock and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits.
- 7 Toss cooked linguine into the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a saucy consistency.
- 8 Return shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- 9 Toss to combine and heat through.
- 10 Garnish with lemon zest and parsley before serving.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for pasta
- Tongs or spatula
Variations
- Add sautéed spinach for a hearty twist.
- Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein.
Substitutions
- Use gluten-free linguine for a gluten-free option.
- Substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
Pairings
- Garlic bread
- A simple arugula salad
Nutrition
Calories:
450 kcal
Fat:
18g fat
Carbs:
45g carbohydrates
Protein:
25g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
5g sugar
Sodium:
600mg sodium
Tips
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
- Make sure shrimp are fully defrosted and patted dry before cooking for best texture.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Freezing: This dish does not freeze well due to the texture of the shrimp and pasta.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp Caesar salad for a light meal.
- Pair with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc to complement the lemony flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What kind of pasta can I use?
Fettuccine or spaghetti work well too, but linguine is traditional for this sauce.