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To create the perfect Lemon Herb Delight, it's essential to understand the role each ingredient plays in the overall flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at the main ingredients that make this recipe shine.

30-Minute Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta

Discover the vibrant flavors of Lemon Herb Delight: Quick Shrimp Pasta! This easy-to-make dish pairs succulent shrimp with zesty lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, creating a delightful meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties, it’s all about simplicity and quality ingredients. With a beautiful presentation and enticing aroma, this pasta dish is not just a feast for your taste buds, but a healthy choice too!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or linguine

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tbsp olive oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust based on spice preference)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup fresh parsley, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.

      - Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

        Sauté the Shrimp:

          - In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic is aromatic and starts to turn golden.

            Add the Shrimp:

              - Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

                Make the Sauce:

                  - In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.

                    Combine Pasta and Shrimp:

                      - Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then gently toss in the drained pasta. Pour in the reserved pasta cooking water, along with the chopped parsley and basil. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the mixture. Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the pasta is heated through and coated in the sauce. If the pasta appears dry, you can add a splash more of the reserved pasta water.

                        Serve and Enjoy:

                          - Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a little extra lemon juice as needed. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

                            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                              - Preparation: 10 minutes

                                - Total Cooking Time: 30 minutes

                                  - Servings: 4

                                    Presentation Tips:

                                      Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, adding a few extra cherry tomato halves on top for color. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and a light drizzle of olive oil for an appealing look.