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Delicious Lemon Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta overhead view

Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta

This quick and flavorful pasta dish features tender shrimp, delicate angel hair, and a vibrant lemon-garlic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 475 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz Angel Hair Pasta
  • 2 tsp Salt for pasta water

For the Zesty Sauce

  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Zest
  • 4 Garlic Cloves minced
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil divided
  • 1/2 cup Chicken or Vegetable Broth
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional

For the Star of the Show

  • 1 lb Large Shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese grated (for serving)

Instructions
 

Main Course

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook angel hair pasta until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until opaque and pink, then remove and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic to the same skillet, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in the broth, fresh lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using); bring to a gentle simmer and reduce slightly for 1-2 minutes.
  • Stir in the butter and fresh lemon zest until the butter is completely melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
  • Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly, and add reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  • Gently fold the cooked shrimp and chopped fresh parsley into the pasta, tossing briefly until combined and heated through.
  • Divide the pasta among serving plates, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcook the shrimp to ensure they remain tender. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.