Angel Hair with Lemon Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Angel Hair with Lemon Shrimp Scampi is a light and flavorful pasta recipe featuring tender shrimp, garlic, and fresh lemon. Perfect for a quick dinner, this dish pairs well with garlic bread or a side salad. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a simple weeknight meal, this recipe offers an easy way to bring restaurant-quality seafood to your table. Made with fresh ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a versatile option for anyone seeking a zesty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 Tbsp salt
• Drizzle of olive oil (for boiling water)
• 3/4 pound angel hair pasta (or your favorite type)

For the Shrimp Scampi:

• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 1/2 Tbsp)
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined; 16-20 or 21-25 per pound)
• 1 tsp salt (for shrimp)
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest (from about 1/2 a lemon)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1.5 to 2 lemons)
• 1/8 tsp hot red pepper flakes

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 Tbsp of salt and a drizzle of olive oil to the boiling water to prevent sticking.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Angel hair pasta typically cooks in about 5 minutes.
• Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Scampi

• In a heavy-bottomed skillet, melt 3 Tbsp butter with 3 Tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Sprinkle them with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
• Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink. Be careful not to overcook to avoid rubbery shrimp.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

• Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the lemon zest, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
• Pour the shrimp and sauce over the cooked and drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful scampi sauce.

Step 4: Serve

• Transfer to a serving platter or individual plates. Serve immediately while warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lemon shrimp scampi with angel hair pasta is light, zesty, and quick to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, it combines fresh ingredients like lemon, garlic, and parsley for a dish that’s full of flavor. The tender shrimp pair beautifully with the delicate angel hair pasta, creating a meal that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to make at home.

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Tips

• Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients prepped before starting since shrimp and angel hair pasta cook quickly.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp to ensure they stay tender and juicy.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and parsley for the best flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Pasta Choice: Swap angel hair for spaghetti, linguine, or even zucchini noodles.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Thaw them in cold water and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients and cook the pasta in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

What wine pairs with this dish?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.

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Serving and Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts. Finish with a refreshing dessert like sorbet or a light fruit salad. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes an excellent accompaniment.