Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 150 g tagliatelle (6 ounces); 100 g fine green beans, cut in half (4 ounces); 125 g frozen peas (1 cup); 200 g raw king prawns (½ lb, size 31-40); 1 large shallot (sliced into half moons); 2 cloves garlic (sliced); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 40 g butter (3 tablespoons); ½ lemon (zest and juice); ½ teaspoon chilli flakes; ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt; ⅙ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon olive oil; ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs; ½ lemon zest; ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt; ⅙ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 11 reviews

If you crave a dish that’s bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, then this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine perfectly cooked tagliatelle coated in a luscious, buttery lemon-garlic sauce, studded with tender king prawns, crisp green beans, and sweet peas, all topped with a crunchy, zesty panko crumb called pangrattato that adds the perfect contrast. It’s a recipe that balances simplicity and elegance, giving you a restaurant-worthy meal in just 20 minutes. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special treat, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe brings sunshine to your plate and joy to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various fresh ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are five white speckled bowls holding different ingredients: one with bright green frozen peas, one with raw gray shrimp, one with fresh green beans, one with pale pink sliced shallots, and a smaller bowl with three peeled garlic cloves. Near the bowls, there is a clear glass bottle filled with golden oil with a cork stopper, a small ceramic bowl containing two sticks of butter, a small bowl with red pepper flakes, a white bowl filled with light-colored panko breadcrumbs, two bright yellow lemon halves, and three nests of uncooked tagliatelle pasta that are light golden in color. Each ingredient is clearly labeled with white tags. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All you need for this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe are fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a key role, from the silky tagliatelle to the tangy lemon zest and the savory shrimp, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful.

150 g tagliatelle: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and ingredients.
100 g fine green beans, cut in half: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing aromatics and infusing a fruity richness.
1 large shallot, sliced into half moons: Offers a mild onion flavor that melts into sweetness when cooked.
2 cloves garlic, sliced: Delivers that punch of garlicky aroma essential for this recipe.
200 g raw king prawns: Tender, juicy seafood that complements the lemon and garlic perfectly.
½ teaspoon chili flakes: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering.
125 g frozen peas: Sweet pop-in-your-mouth bursts that brighten every bite.
40 g butter: Provides a luscious richness that carries the sauce beautifully.
½ lemon (zest and juice): The star ingredient for that refreshing tang and fragrant lift.
¼ cup reserved pasta water: Helps loosen the sauce and make it silky on the pasta.
1 teaspoon olive oil (for pangrattato): Used to crisp up the breadcrumbs for added texture.
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs: Crunchy topping for exciting texture contrast.
½ lemon zest (for pangrattato): Adds a citrusy brightness to the crumbs.
⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors subtly.
⅙ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Grounds the dish with a touch of heat.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Make the Pangrattato

This crispy lemony breadcrumb topping is a game-changer. Heat a small skillet over medium heat, then add olive oil and panko breadcrumbs. Toss them frequently to let the crumbs golden evenly. This process only takes a few minutes but watch carefully so they don’t burn. Once golden, stir in lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Set aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the dish — this little crunch will add incredible texture to your pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Green Beans

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tagliatelle according to package instructions, usually about 9-10 minutes. For the last 4 minutes, add the halved green beans right into the boiling pasta water. This will cook them until just tender but still crisp and colorful. Drain the pasta and green beans, reserving a quarter cup of the pasta water to loosen the sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shallot and sauté for 2-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and sweet. Add garlic slices and cook for another minute until fragrant. These aromatics set the savory foundation for your pasta’s sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp and Add Peas

Add the king prawns and chili flakes to the skillet, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the shrimp are perfectly pink and opaque. Then stir in the frozen peas with a pinch of salt and pepper. The peas add sweetness and a vibrant splash of color, perfectly balancing the savory shrimp and aromatic base.

Step 5: Create the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat and add the butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice into the skillet. Stir everything together gently over low heat until the butter melts and the ingredients combine into a silky, fragrant sauce that clings to the shrimp and veggies.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta and green beans into the skillet with the shrimp mixture. Pour in the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches a glossy, luscious consistency. This step makes the sauce cling beautifully to every strand of pasta while keeping it light and fresh.

Step 7: Serve with Pangrattato

Plate the pasta right away and generously sprinkle the lemony pangrattato on top. This crunchy, zesty finish will provide a delightful contrast to the silky pasta and tender shrimp, making every bite exciting and delicious.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

A black cast iron pan filled with a layer of bright green peas covering the bottom. On top of the peas, there are cooked shrimp arranged evenly around the pan, showing their orange and pink color with light grill marks. Near the shrimp, there are two square pieces of yellow butter melting, with some yellow lemon zest sprinkled across the peas and shrimp. A woman's hand holds a wooden spoon resting inside the pan. The background surface is white marbled. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a lovely fresh aroma and extra color to this dish. A little extra lemon zest on top will amplify the bright citrus notes. For those who love cheese, a light dusting of grated Parmesan can also complement the flavors nicely without overpowering the bright lemon and garlic.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to echo the flavors of the pasta. Garlic bread or a simple baguette is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. For a veggie boost, roasted asparagus or a medley of grilled seasonal vegetables are excellent companions as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe family-style on a large platter for a convivial meal. Garnish with edible flowers for a special occasion or layer the shrimp and veggies on top so their colors shine through. You can even divide portions into individual glass jars for an elegant picnic or lunch on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since the pasta absorbs sauce over time, it’s best to slightly undercook the pasta initially if you plan to refrigerate to keep the texture perfect when reheated.

Freezing

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe does not freeze very well because the shrimp can become rubbery and the pasta mushy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days of refrigeration for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is possible but less ideal, as it can dry out the shrimp and pasta. Stir frequently to ensure even warming and maintain the sauce’s silkiness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While tagliatelle works beautifully here, you can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or even spaghetti. The key is choosing a pasta that holds sauce well and suits your preference.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the tagliatelle for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the pangrattato. The rest of the recipe naturally avoids gluten, so it’s an easy adjustment.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

You can, but thaw them completely before cooking for the best texture. Pat them dry to avoid adding excess moisture to the pan, which can prevent a good sear and affect the flavor.

How spicy is this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe?

This recipe has a gentle warmth from the chili flakes, which you can easily adjust according to your heat tolerance. Feel free to omit or increase the chili flakes based on your preference.

What is pangrattato, and why is it used?

Pangrattato is an Italian crispy breadcrumb topping that adds crunch and flavor. It’s a delicious alternative to cheese toppings and gives the dish an exciting texture contrast that elevates the entire meal.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—bright, comforting, and effortlessly elegant. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for so many home cooks and seafood lovers. So grab these simple, fresh ingredients and whip up a batch today. I promise it’ll brighten your week and might just become a new staple in your recipe collection!