Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Shrimp

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Lemon Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Corner

I recently experimented with a delicious angel hair pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp and a zesty lemon sauce. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household. The light, citrusy flavors complement the tender pasta perfectly, making it a delightful meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying. What I love most is how simple it is to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. Trust me, once you try this, it will be a go-to recipe for your dinner table!

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:37:35.296Z

This dish has quickly become one of my go-to recipes. The combination of lemon and shrimp is not just flavorful; it also brings a lightness to the meal that makes it feel refreshing. I remember the first time I prepared it for friends, and they were blown away by how delicious it tasted even though it was so quick to make.

A little tip I learned is to sauté the shrimp in butter to really enhance their flavor before adding the lemon juice and zest. The result is a perfect blend of zestiness and richness that complements the angel hair pasta beautifully. I always make sure to have fresh ingredients ready to elevate this simple dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your palate
Quick preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Light yet satisfying meal for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish, angel hair pasta, is renowned for its delicate texture and ability to absorb the flavors around it. Its fine strands cook quickly and pair incredibly well with the zesty lemon and the shrimp, creating a harmonious blend. To ensure perfect texture, keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks; overcooking can lead to mushiness, which detracts from the overall dish.

Shrimp provides not just protein but also a delightful seafood flavor that complements the lemony sauce beautifully. When selecting shrimp, look for ones that are firm and have a mild ocean scent. Fresh shrimp can elevate the dish, but if you opt for frozen, thaw them properly in the fridge prior to cooking to maintain a good texture.

The addition of garlic and butter creates a rich, aromatic base for the shrimp. Garlic should be cooked just until fragrant; overcooking can turn it bitter. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish, making it easier to balance the flavors of the lemon and seafood.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When sautéing shrimp, the cooking time is crucial. They should be added to the skillet once the garlic is aromatic (about 1 minute). Watch for the color change in the shrimp; they should be vibrant pink and opaque inside. If they cook too long, they can become rubbery, so timing them 3-4 minutes is optimal for that perfect tender bite.

The secret to a glossy, flavorful pasta dish lies in properly combining the ingredients. Once you add the lemon juice and zest to the shrimp, let it simmer for a minute before tossing in the pasta. This helps the pasta soak up all the delicious looking sauce while keeping it from becoming dry. Make sure every strand of pasta is well-coated; a tongs or pasta fork works well for this.

For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of white wine during the shrimp sauté. The alcohol evaporates, leaving a subtle complexity to the dish that complements the shrimp and lemon. Just add about half a cup after removing the shrimp and let it reduce by half before tossing in the pasta.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start to streamline the cooking process.

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have your ingredients ready before cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a delightful dish.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the lemon juice and zest to the shrimp, stirring to combine. Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is well-coated. Cook for another minute to heat through. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious lemon shrimp angel hair pasta!

Pro Tips

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, and feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pasta warm, immediately after combining to retain that lovely texture. Pairing with a simple side salad or garlic bread can make for a delightful dining experience. For an elegant touch, consider a sprinkle of freshly shaved Parmesan cheese over the top before serving, adding a savory contrast to the zesty lemon.

Wine lovers might enjoy a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio alongside this dish. The crispness of the wine enhances the citrus notes of the pasta and complements the shrimp beautifully. If you're hosting a dinner, setting the table with vibrant spring flowers can elevate the feel of the meal, making it feel special.

For a bit of heat, consider a side of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for diners to sprinkle on their plates. This adds an exciting depth and can cater to those who enjoy a little spice with their seafood.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare some components in advance. Cook the pasta and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it briefly in boiling water or in a skillet with a splash of olive oil to restore its texture before adding the shrimp.

The shrimp can also be marinated in lemon juice and garlic ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together. However, avoid marinating for more than 30 minutes, as the acidity can cause the shrimp to become too soft. If there are leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently to avoid overcooking.

If you’re thinking about freezing, it's best to freeze the shrimp and sauce separately from the pasta. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently. The pasta can be made fresh, cooked just before serving to maintain its integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What if I don’t have lemon?

You can substitute lime juice for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make great side dishes.