Shrimp with Angel Hair in Lemon Butter Sauce

Delight in the fresh flavors of Shrimp with Angel Hair in Lemon Butter Sauce, a dish that brings the taste of the coast to your kitchen. This quick and vibrant recipe features succulent shrimp sautéed with colorful vegetables like zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon butter sauce.

The delicate angel hair pasta perfectly complements the rich flavors, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends!

Shrimp with Angel Hair in Lemon Butter Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

8 ounces angel hair pasta

For the Shrimp and Sauce:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 medium zucchini, sliced

1 medium yellow squash, sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Juice of 1 lemon

Zest of 1 lemon

1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing until they begin to soften (about 3-4 minutes).

Stir in the minced garlic, zucchini, yellow squash, and crushed red pepper. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Add Shrimp and Tomatoes:

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque (about 3-4 minutes).

Stir in the cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, and lemon zest, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the shrimp and vegetable mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs, mixing well.

Serve:

Plate the shrimp and angel hair, garnishing with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy warm!

Tips:

Adjusting Spice: If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.

Veggie Variations: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on your preference.

Protein Options: This dish also works well with scallops or a mix of seafood.

Enjoy your delightful Shrimp with Angel Hair!

Notes:

Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

Pasta Cooking: Keep an eye on the angel hair pasta, as it cooks quickly. Aim for al dente to avoid mushy pasta.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Herb Choices: Fresh herbs elevate the dish, so use parsley, basil, or even dill for a different flavor profile. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch but use less since they’re more concentrated.

Adjusting Acidity: If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, add additional lemon juice or zest to taste.

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. You can also add fresh chili for more heat.

Butter and Oil: The combination of butter and olive oil helps balance richness and adds depth to the sauce. You can use all butter or all oil, depending on your dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Leftovers: While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

Wine Pairing: For a delightful dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well.

Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

What if I don’t have angel hair pasta?

You can substitute with other types of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.

Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead.

Cook the pasta and sauté the shrimp and veggies just before serving.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add fresh sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach based on your preference.

Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Can I use a different type of fat?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil or avocado oil for the butter if you prefer a dairy-free option.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs nicely with a light salad or crusty bread.

A glass of white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried herbs can be used, but use about one-third the amount since they are more concentrated.

Add them during the cooking process to rehydrate.