Delightful Linguine with Shrimp and Lemon Oil
This Linguine with Shrimp and Lemon Oil is more than just a dish; it’s a cherished memory from my childhood. I remember the summer evenings spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of garlic and fresh seafood would fill the air. She would often prepare this elegant meal for family gatherings, and it became a staple that brought us all together. The lightness of the dish, combined with the zesty lemon oil, always felt like a celebration of the season.
What Makes It Special
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh shrimp and vibrant lemon oil elevates the dish, making it feel both light and luxurious.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 10 minutes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping out the shrimp for another protein.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4
- 12 oz linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Get Cooking
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
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Stir in the lemon zest and juice, then add the drained linguine to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
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Finish by stirring in the fresh parsley and adjusting seasoning to taste. Serve immediately.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
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Feel free to substitute the shrimp with scallops or even grilled chicken for a different flavor profile.
Perfect Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread for a delightful crunch
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: You can substitute the linguine with gluten-free pasta, and the recipe will still be delicious!
The Heart of the Dish
This Linguine with Shrimp and Lemon Oil is a dish that embodies the essence of summer and family gatherings. It’s light, fresh, and elegant, making it perfect for any occasion. I love how it brings back memories of laughter and love shared around the dinner table, and I hope it does the same for you.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe in your own kitchen! Feel free to tweak it to your liking and share your experiences. I would love to hear how it turns out for you!
Giada De Laurentiis’ Linguine with Shrimp and Lemon Oil: Light, Fresh, and Elegant
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, and then add the cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss to combine all ingredients.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
