Recipe: Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

 ngredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta (linguine or spaghetti works well)
• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup of heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp:

   • While the pasta is cooking, prepare the shrimp.
   • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
   • Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
   • Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
   • Once melted, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and lemon juice.
   • Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest, and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
   • Simmer the sauce for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

4. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:

   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
   • Toss the pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
   • Gently stir in the cooked shrimp until they are incorporated into the pasta.

5. Serve:

   • Transfer the lemon garlic butter shrimp pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish.
   • Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Serve immediately, with additional lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Enjoy this flavorful and comforting Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta as a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner, perfect for any occasion!