Shrimp Linguine is a classic and elegant dish that combines tender, succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked linguine in a light, flavorful sauce. This dish is a beautiful blend of simplicity and sophistication, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The sauce, typically made with garlic, white wine, lemon juice, and a touch of butter, enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp while coating the pasta in a luscious, silky finish. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, Shrimp Linguine is a quick and satisfying meal that brings the taste of the sea to your table.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Add Lemon and Butter: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter. Cook until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Return the shrimp to the skillet, along with the cooked linguine. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the pasta is coated with the sauce and everything is heated through.
- Serve: Transfer the Shrimp Linguine to serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Shrimp Linguine is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that combines the fresh flavors of shrimp, garlic, and lemon in a way that’s both light and indulgent, making it a perfect choice for any meal.
