Today, I am making Ina Garten’s Lemon Shrimp Pasta. This dish is a perfect blend of tender shrimp, zesty lemon, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Simple yet full of flavor, it’s a recipe that delivers both in taste and ease of preparation.
What is Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta?
Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta is a delightful pasta dish that pairs succulent shrimp with a tangy lemon sauce. The combination of garlic, white wine, and fresh parsley enhances the flavors, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. The pasta soaks up the lemony sauce, while the shrimp adds a burst of protein, making it a balanced and flavorful meal.
Other Ina Garten Recipes
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a fast and delicious dinner.
- Bursting with Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest give the pasta a bright, tangy flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Healthy and Light: Lean shrimp and a light sauce make this a healthy choice without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level.
- Elegant Yet Simple: Despite its simplicity, this dish looks and tastes restaurant-quality, making it perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions to Make Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute.
- Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with lemon zest and butter.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in cooked shrimp, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest if desired.
What Goes Well With Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra lemony sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus are great side options.
- White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish.
Essential Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Use it to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensures the pasta holds up well in the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served right after cooking to enjoy the fresh flavors.
Variations of Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Vegetable Additions: Toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Storing Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta: Best Practices
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta: Best Practices
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
How can I make Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta healthier?
You can make a few simple adjustments to make Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta healthier. Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for added fiber and nutrients. Reduce the amount of butter and olive oil to lower the fat content. Increase the amount of vegetables, such as adding spinach or cherry tomatoes, to boost the dish’s nutritional value. You can also substitute low-sodium chicken broth for white wine to reduce the sodium content. Finally, consider using a smaller amount of Parmesan cheese or opting for a lighter version.
How do you prevent the shrimp from becoming tough in Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta?
To prevent the shrimp from becoming tough, cook them only until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re done.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. To thaw, place the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a few minutes.
What type of pasta works best for Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta?
Linguine or spaghetti are the best choices for this dish. Their long, thin shape holds the lemony sauce well, creating a balanced bite with each forkful. However, you can use other pasta shapes like fettuccine or angel hair if you prefer.
How can I make Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the white wine and seasonings, are also gluten-free.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g
Final Words
Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta is a dish that brings together simple, fresh ingredients to create something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Give it a try and enjoy the bright, zesty flavors that make this pasta a favorite!
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PrintIna Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and boiling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Ina Garten Lemon Shrimp Pasta is a delightful pasta dish that pairs succulent shrimp with a tangy lemon sauce. The combination of garlic, white wine, and fresh parsley enhances the flavors, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. The pasta soaks up the lemony sauce, while the shrimp adds a burst of protein, making it a balanced and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute.
- Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with lemon zest and butter.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in cooked shrimp, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest if desired.