Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering culinary adventure that will transport you straight to the sunny coastlines of Italy! Our Zesty Fettuccine and Shrimp recipe is not just another pasta dish – it's a flavor explosion that promises to turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary dining experience. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of fettuccine, 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp, 2 cloves of garlic minced, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, the juice of 1 lemon, 1/4 cup of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the fettuccine is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of olive oil and allow it to warm for about 1 minute.
- Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are pink and opaque.
- When the fettuccine is done cooking, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the fettuccine in a colander.
- Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the lemon juice and toss everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Remove the skillet from heat and taste the dish. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
- To serve, divide the zesty fettuccine and shrimp among four plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious Zesty Fettuccine and Shrimp with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad!
Tips
- For the most tender and flavorful shrimp, make sure to pat them completely dry before cooking to ensure a perfect sear.
- Don't overcook the shrimp! They only need 3-4 minutes and will turn rubbery if cooked too long. Look for a pink color and opaque appearance.
- Reserved pasta water is a chef's secret weapon – it helps create a silky sauce and helps the ingredients stick together.
- Fresh ingredients make a huge difference. Use fresh garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- If you like extra heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce or omit them entirely.
- For a complete meal, pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 220mg
