This Cilantro Lime Shrimp Pasta is a zesty treat! Tender shrimp, fresh cilantro, and a splash of lime come together with pasta for a refreshing dish that’s easy to make.
I love how quick this meal is—perfect for busy evenings. Just toss everything together, and you get a burst of flavor that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using fettuccine or linguine for this dish. However, any pasta shape you have on hand will work—penne or spaghetti is just as good! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is the best choice for flavor and texture. If you can only find frozen shrimp, go ahead! Just thaw them in cold water before cooking to save time. You can also substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken if you prefer.
Cilantro: This herb is key for a fresh punch! If cilantro isn’t your favorite, try fresh parsley for a milder flavor. Another option is to use green onions for a different twist.
Lime: Using fresh lime juice and zest enhances the taste. If you don’t have limes, try using lemon juice and zest to give a different yet bright flavor profile to the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Shrimp for This Pasta?
Cooking shrimp just right is essential to keep them juicy and tender. Here’s how:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the shrimp. This helps them sear nicely.
- Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
- Remove shrimp from the skillet before adding other ingredients to avoid them overcooking.
- Allow the shrimp to warm back through with the pasta at the end—you’ll keep them soft and flavorful this way!
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. With a quick cook time for the pasta and shrimp, it makes for a perfect weeknight dish that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Before you drain the pasta, be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water! Drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet, and sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through. When done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium. Add the butter and garlic, sautéing until the garlic is fragrant, which should take about a minute. Just be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add the drained pasta back into the skillet, tossing it around in the garlic butter until it’s well coated. Now, stir in the lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and grated Parmesan cheese. If the sauce seems too dry, add a little reserved pasta water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Finish the Dish:
Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well combined and warmed through. Take care not to overcook the shrimp at this stage.
6. Serve:
Transfer your cilantro lime shrimp pasta to a serving dish. Garnish with extra cilantro, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and lime slices if you wish. Serve right away, and enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp is perfectly fine! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the quick method of submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños when you sauté the garlic. You could also serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick!
What Are Some Good Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of lime juice for freshness.
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand, including gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different pasta varieties.