Description
Get ready to spice up your weeknight meals with this irresistible Cajun Shrimp Scampi. Bursting with bold flavors, this easy dinner idea combines tender shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices, tossed in a buttery garlic-lemon sauce, and served over perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner, something flavorful for a date night, or fresh new food ideas, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite. With its mix of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a touch of heat, it’s a flavorful twist on a classic seafood pasta that’s as comforting as it is exciting. Perfect for fans of quick recipes, seafood lovers, and anyone looking to elevate their dinner ideas with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz spaghetti or linguine
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Pat shrimp dry and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear shrimp 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 1 minute.
- Add lemon juice and zest. Stir in 1/4 cup pasta water.
- Toss in cooked pasta and coat well. Return shrimp to pan and stir to combine.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges.