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To create this Zesty Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta, you'll need a handful of fresh ingredients that come together to form a symphony of flavors. Let's break down the components that make this dish so special:

Zesty Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Discover the joy of a warm bowl of Zesty Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta, a dish that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. With succulent shrimp, fresh fettuccine, and a rich lemon butter sauce, this recipe transforms a simple meal into something extraordinary. Perfect for casual dinners or elegant gatherings, it's also easy to customize. With vibrant flavors and a creamy texture, this delightful dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine pasta

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tbsp unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

      Add Shrimp: Add the cleaned shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

        Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Stir continuously and lower the heat to a simmer.

          Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked fettuccine and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture seems dry. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley until well combined.

            Taste and Adjust: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

              Plate and Garnish: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra parsley and lemon slices on top.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings