Name: Garlic Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Broth Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 teaspoon sea salt, divided; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 shallots, thinly sliced; 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 pound angel hair pasta; Chopped parsley; Lemon wedges

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 5 reviews

If you are craving a bright and comforting pasta dish that bursts with flavor, you must try this Garlic Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Broth Recipe. This delightful seafood pasta combines tender shrimp with delicate angel hair pasta, all bathed in a luscious lemon-infused broth that feels like sunshine on a plate. The balance of garlicky aroma, a hint of spice, and the fresh citrus zing makes every bite utterly irresistible and easy to whip up in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a silver pan filled with cooked shrimp that are orange and slightly browned with seasoning, resting on a white marbled surface. The shrimp are arranged in one layer, with some pieces turned and crisped at the edges. The pan has two metal handles and a shiny interior that reflects some of the shrimp and seasoning bits. There are small herbs and spices sprinkled over the shrimp, adding texture and color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Garlic Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Broth Recipe plays a vital role — from the perfectly spiced shrimp to the light, flavorful broth and the fine strands of angel hair pasta that soak up all the goodness.

2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a smooth base to cook the shrimp and adds richness.
1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein, tender and quick-cooking.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all flavors naturally without overwhelming.
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and earthiness to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky warmth and color to the shrimp.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: A touch of spice to awaken the palate.
2 tablespoons butter: Creates a silky finish to the lemon broth.
2 shallots (thinly sliced): Offering a sweet, mild onion flavor for depth.
5 cloves garlic (thinly sliced): The aromatic heart of the recipe, lending bold flavor.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Forms the comforting lemon broth background.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens and lifts all the flavors beautifully.
1/2 pound angel hair pasta: The perfect light pasta that absorbs the broth effortlessly.
Optional – chopped parsley and lemon wedges: For fresh garnish and extra zesty flair.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Broth Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Shrimp

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Toss in the shrimp, then season with half the salt, black pepper, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a gorgeous pink and are cooked through. This short cooking time keeps them juicy and tender. Set them aside to add back later, making sure the flavors soak in.

Step 2: Sauté the Shallots and Garlic

In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high and melt the butter. Once it’s bubbly, add the thinly sliced shallots and sauté until they soften and become fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic slices along with the remaining salt and spices, stirring constantly for 30 seconds. This step unlocks the deep, aromatic backbone of your lemon broth.

Step 3: Build the Lemon Broth Base

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This simmering allows the flavors to marry and the broth to develop a rich but light taste that will perfectly complement the seafood and pasta.

Step 4: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta

While the broth simmers, cook the angel hair pasta in a large pot of very salty boiling water according to package directions—it cooks quickly, usually in just a couple minutes. Be sure to reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining, as it will help loosen the sauce and bring it all together.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Combine

Add the reserved pasta water to your simmering broth and continue simmering for 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce reduces slightly and thickens. Then stir in the fresh lemon juice and return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat each piece with the luscious lemon broth. Finally, turn off the heat and add the cooked angel hair pasta, giving everything one last toss to marry all those incredible flavors.

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Broth Recipe

The image shows several ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the top left is a white bowl filled with raw shrimp, light gray with brownish tails. To its right is a small glass pitcher with light yellow oil, and next to it is a glass bowl filled with thinly sliced pale pink shallots. Below is a large measuring cup with clear, light golden liquid, and next to it a small clear bowl with a pale yellow liquid. To the left, there is a white bowl holding thinly sliced garlic cloves. Nearby is a small white plate with various spices, including black pepper, salt, red chili flakes, and red paprika. A small glass bowl with a square of pale yellow butter sits closer to the bottom left corner. Lastly, a bunch of dry uncooked spaghetti noodles sticks out of a blue and yellow pasta box lying open on the surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten your plate with chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top for a pop of green and subtle herbal notes. Serve with lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add an extra splash of zing if they like. These simple garnishes elevate both the look and taste of your dish brilliantly.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Broth Recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or lightly roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. A crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious lemon broth.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, serve the pasta in shallow soup plates to showcase the broth’s glisten and the shrimp’s vibrant colors. Garnish each plate with a sprig of fresh parsley and a thin lemon wheel for an elegant touch. You can even drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil for a glossy finish and richer flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld even more, making your next meal delightful and speedy to reheat.

Freezing

While shrimp and delicate angel hair pasta are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the lemon broth separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing the fully combined dish as the pasta’s texture can suffer.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the shrimp tender and the pasta from becoming mushy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While angel hair pasta is ideal because it soaks up the lemon broth without overpowering, you can also try linguine or thin spaghetti for a similar light texture.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply substitute the butter with extra olive oil or a vegan butter alternative to keep it creamy without dairy.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt as a substitute, though chicken broth adds a nice depth of flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but you can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely depending on your heat preference.

Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Yes! Just make sure to use a larger skillet or pot to give the shrimp and pasta enough room to cook evenly, and adjust seasoning as you go for balanced flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta in Lemon Broth Recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone who loves quick yet impressive seafood dishes bursting with zesty, garlicky charm. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special but won’t keep you in the kitchen all night. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this simple, bright, and delicious pasta becomes one of your favorite go-to meals too!