Lemon Herb Shrimp Spaghetti

Name: Lemon Herb Shrimp Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Recipes | Simple Food

When I first tried making Lemon Herb Shrimp Spaghetti, I was amazed at how quickly this dish comes together and how fresh the flavors are. The combination of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs truly elevates the succulent shrimp and pasta to a delightful meal fit for any occasion. I've experimented with variations, but this version remains my favorite due to its bright flavors and ease of preparation. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests on the weekend.

Created by

Kyle

Last updated on 2026-02-15T14:38:18.941Z

My love affair with Lemon Herb Shrimp Spaghetti began during a casual dinner party where I wanted something easy yet impressive. I decided to infuse the dish with lemon juice and zest, which lent a refreshing brightness that complemented the shrimp perfectly. The fresh herbs, particularly parsley and basil, add an aromatic component that rounds out the meal.

One of the key tips I’ve discovered is to cook the shrimp just until they turn pink, as overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. This simple technique, combined with al dente spaghetti, ensures that every bite is a flavorful experience. Trust me—this dish will wow your taste buds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor combined with succulent shrimp
Quick and simple, perfect for busy weeknights
Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor to each bite

      

Ingredient Insights

The key to a successful Lemon Herb Shrimp Spaghetti lies in the freshness of its ingredients. When selecting shrimp, go for wild-caught if possible, as it typically yields a sweeter flavor than farmed shrimp. Look for shrimp that are pink and translucent, which indicates they are fresh and have not been previously frozen. This dish benefits from bright, citrusy flavor, so use a freshly zested and juiced lemon instead of bottled lemon juice for the best results.

Fresh herbs like parsley and basil are essential in this dish, adding a burst of flavor and color. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can substitute with dried herbs, though the flavor will not be quite as vibrant. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried herbs per 1/4 cup of fresh herbs, keeping in mind that dried herbs can take longer to release their flavors. Always incorporate the herbs at the end of cooking to maintain their fresh essence.

Perfecting the Technique

Cooking the shrimp just right is crucial for achieving that tender texture. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery consistency, so watch closely as they cook; they should turn a lovely pink color and opaque in the center within about 3-5 minutes. A tip I love is to remove them from the heat once they are just cooked through and let the residual heat complete the cooking process.

Incorporating the reserved pasta water is a game-changer for this dish. It helps to create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles beautifully. Start by adding small increments of the pasta water, mixing it in gradually to ensure the right consistency. Aim for a lightly creamy, glossy finish rather than a soupy texture, making sure to adjust the amount based on the dryness of the mixture.

Ingredients

For the Dish

12 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the spaghetti aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Combine Ingredients

Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss in the cooked spaghetti, along with the reserved pasta water, and stir until combined. Add the chopped parsley and basil, mixing well.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs and lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcook the shrimp
they should be just pink and tender. Fresh herbs make a big difference, so use them if you can.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Lemon Herb Shrimp Spaghetti is best served fresh, but it can be prepped ahead to save time on busy nights. You can cook the spaghetti and shrimp separately, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and toss them with the freshly cooked pasta and sauce.

If you plan to make this dish in bulk, consider freezing the shrimp separately in a freezer-friendly bag. When you're ready to cook, defrost them in the fridge overnight or in a bowl of cold water for quick use. However, I recommend adding fresh herbs and lemon juice right before serving for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Herb Shrimp Spaghetti is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an extra pop of color and nutrition, add sliced cherry tomatoes or steamed asparagus to the pasta right before serving. This not only elevates the dish visually but adds additional flavors that complement the lemon and herbs perfectly.

For a more elegant touch, serve the pasta in large, shallow bowls and garnish with extra herbs and thin lemon slices. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can also add a creamy texture and salty bite that enhances the overall flavor profile. This dish not only shines at dinner but makes for impressive leftovers to bring to lunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw them completely before cooking, and drain any excess water.

→ What can I substitute for shrimp?

You can use chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can cook the components separately and combine them just before serving.