Shrimp Pasta with Lemon-Butter Sauce

Shrimp Pasta with Lemon-Butter Sauce

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Prepration Time
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Total Time
  • 10 minutes
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Prepration Time
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Total Time
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Prepration Time
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Total Time
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Cherry Margarita

Italian Cherry Margarita

Prepration Time
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Total Time
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Prepration Time
  • 15–20 minutes
Total Time
  • 30 minutes
Serving
  • 4 People

Ingradients

For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine (or gluten-free alternative)
  • Salt (for boiling water)

 

For the Lemon-Butter Shrimp:
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Baby spinach or arugula
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan)
  • White wine (½ cup for deglazing, optional)

Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta:

    • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Sauté the Shrimp:

    • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter.
    • Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

  3. Make the Lemon-Butter Sauce:

    • In the same pan, add remaining butter, garlic, lemon zest, and juice.
    • Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes if using.

  4. Combine Everything:

    • Return cooked shrimp to the pan. Toss with cooked pasta.
    • Add parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
    • Optional: Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding shrimp.

  5. Serve:

    • Garnish with extra parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Pros:

  1. High-Quality Protein Source: Shrimp is rich in lean protein, supporting muscle repair and satiety.
  2. Healthy Fats from Butter & Lemon: Offers good flavor and some essential fat-soluble vitamins.
  3. Quick & Easy Meal: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners.
  4. Packed with Flavor: Natural flavors from lemon, garlic, and herbs make it satisfying without heavy cream.
  5. Versatile: Can be customized with vegetables, wine, or cheese for added depth.

Cons:

  1. High in Cholesterol: Shrimp naturally contains cholesterol; not ideal for those monitoring intake.
  2. High in Saturated Fat (from Butter): May affect heart health if consumed frequently.
  3. Not Low-Carb/Keto Friendly (with Regular Pasta): High in carbs unless substituted with low-carb noodles.
  4. Seafood Allergy Risk: Not suitable for people allergic to shellfish.
  5. May Be Too Rich for Some Digestive Systems: Especially for those sensitive to fats or dairy.

Suitable for Aged People?

Yes, this Shrimp Pasta with Lemon-Butter Sauce can be enjoyed by aged individuals due to:

  • Soft Texture: Well-cooked pasta and tender shrimp are easy to chew and digest.
  • Rich in Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and overall strength in older adults.
  • Contains Potassium & B-Vitamins: Supports nerve and heart function.

However:

  • Heart Health Concerns: Monitor saturated fat and cholesterol intake for seniors with cardiovascular issues.
  • Digestive Sensitivity: Some may find butter-heavy dishes hard to digest.
  • Allergies: Must avoid if there’s a known shellfish allergy.

👉 Tip: Use olive oil instead of butter and whole wheat or legume-based pasta to boost fiber and heart health.

⚠️ Who Should Avoid This Recipe?

This recipe may not be suitable for:

  1. People with Shellfish Allergies: Contains shrimp; unsafe for allergic individuals.
  2. Those with Heart Disease: High in cholesterol and saturated fat.
  3. Lactose Intolerant Individuals: Contains butter and possibly Parmesan cheese.
  4. Low-Carb or Ketogenic Dieters: Standard pasta makes it high in carbs unless modified.
  5. Gout Patients: Shellfish may trigger flare-ups due to purine content.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient
Amount
% Daily Value
Calories
420
Total Fat
16g
20%
Saturated Fat
8g
40%
Cholesterol
190mg
63%
Sodium
400mg
17%
Total Carbohydrate
40g
15%
Dietary Fiber
2g
7%
Total Sugars
2g
Protein
28g
56%
Vitamin A
400 IU
8%
Vitamin C
20mg
22%
Calcium
80mg
6%
Iron
2mg
11%
Potassium
350mg
10%