If you’re craving a dish that feels like a sunny, seaside escape in every bite, this Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It combines tender, juicy shrimp with bright, zesty lemon flavors and perfectly al dente spaghetti, all tied together with fresh herbs and creamy Parmigiano-Reggiano. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in a way that tastes effortlessly gourmet yet is completely achievable in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for friends or treating yourself, the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures will leave you reaching for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of many raw shrimp with their shells partially removed, arranged on a bed of crushed ice. The shrimp have a greyish-green color with some white and pale pink patches where the shells are gone, showing the flesh underneath. The ice is clear and fragmented, creating a cold and fresh look. The background is a white marbled texture visible under the ice. The shrimp are scattered randomly, some curved and some straight, with tails and legs still attached. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether adding brightness, richness, or that perfect punch of herbaceous freshness. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Large shrimp (908 grams): Shelled and deveined shrimp ensure quick cooking and an elegant bite.
Extra virgin olive oil (1/3 cup + 1/2 cup): Adds smooth richness and helps meld all flavors together.
Lemon zest (from 3 lemons total): Gives a fresh, vibrant citrus aroma without overwhelming the dish.
Chopped parsley (1 cup total): Provides a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of color.
Minced garlic (4 cloves): Brings warmth and depth to the shrimp marinade.
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors.
Spaghetti (454 grams): The perfect pasta shape to catch and carry the lemony sauce and shrimp.
Lemon juice (1/3 cup): Adds acidity that brightens the sauce and complements the shrimp.
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (1/2 cup): Adds creamy umami, finishing the sauce with a luscious texture.

How to Make Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp Gremolata Marinade

Start by tossing the large shrimp with extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest from two lemons, chopped parsley, and minced garlic in a bowl. This simple mixture not only coats the shrimp in vibrant citrus and herb flavors but also tenderizes and prepares them for a quick, flavorful sear. Letting them marinate at room temperature for about 20 minutes means every bite will be infused with zesty freshness.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

While the shrimp marinate, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta from within, enhancing its natural flavor. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente according to the package instructions. This timing is crucial; the pasta should have a slight bite so it perfectly complements the tender shrimp and sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, seasoning the shrimp with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Cook the shrimp in a single layer for about 2 minutes on each side. Depending on your pan’s size, you might need to do this in batches to ensure an even, golden sear. Once golden and cooked through, transfer the shrimp to a plate to rest.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Pasta Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the remaining extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest from one lemon, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, chopped parsley, and a dash of salt and pepper. This sauce is a vibrant marriage of creamy, tangy, and herbal notes that will coat the pasta beautifully without weighing it down.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Drain the spaghetti, reserving about one cup of the pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot and pour the lemon sauce over it. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and create a silky texture. The starch in the pasta water helps the sauce cling perfectly to every strand.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Transfer the lemon spaghetti onto a serving platter and top with the pan-seared shrimp. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and an extra drizzle of olive oil for gloss and richness. You can serve this family-style and let everyone help themselves or plate individual portions topped with a neat pile of shrimp, a drizzle of olive oil, and a quick sprinkle of cheese for that extra special touch.

How to Serve Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe

A black round plate filled with cooked shrimp arranged in a layered circle, each shrimp showing a pinkish-orange color with dark green herb bits sprinkled on top. The shrimp have their tails on and are slightly curled, showing a shiny texture from the cooking juices. There are three lemon wedges placed on a white marbled surface near the plate, along with a green bunch of fresh herbs at the top edge of the frame. The focus is bright and clear, showing the detailed texture of the shrimp and herbs, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way with this dish. Fresh chopped parsley adds a lively green contrast, while a few shavings or a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano can deepen the flavor. For an extra citrus kick, a twist of fresh lemon zest right before serving brightens everything up beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, add crunch and freshness without competing with the main flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Serve the spaghetti twirled into neat nests atop large plates, with shrimp arranged in a circular pattern. Alternatively, use shallow bowls for a cozy presentation, perfect for spooning up every bit of the luscious lemon sauce. A drizzle of herb-infused olive oil or microgreens can elevate the look for special occasions or dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The lemon sauce holds up nicely, though the texture of the shrimp may soften a bit. To keep the pasta from sticking together, you can toss it with a little olive oil before storing.

Freezing

While you can freeze the leftover pasta, shrimp tends to become rubbery when frozen and reheated. For best results, freeze just the lemon spaghetti sauce separately if you want to prepare in advance and add freshly cooked shrimp when serving.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can toughen the shrimp and dry out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating and cooking to ensure a good sear and avoid excess moisture.

Is this recipe very lemony?

You can definitely adjust the lemon amounts to your taste. This recipe balances the bright acidity with the richness of olive oil and cheese, but feel free to add more or less lemon juice for your perfect zing.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti is ideal because its long strands catch the lemon sauce beautifully. However, linguine or fettuccine can also work nicely if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can omit the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted artichokes for a delicious vegetarian twist that still pairs perfectly with the lemony sauce.

How do I keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook the shrimp over medium-high heat for just 2 minutes per side and remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking will make them rubbery and tough, so timing is key.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Its bright, fresh flavors and satisfying textures make it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do sharing it—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!