Lemon Chive Shrimp Pasta

Name: Lemon Chive Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine or spaghetti; 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water); 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup fresh chives, chopped; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes

When I think of quick and satisfying meals, Lemon Chive Shrimp Pasta comes to mind. It’s one of those dishes that unite bright, zesty flavors with comforting pasta in a matter of minutes. I love how the succulent shrimp soak up the lemon juice and blend perfectly with the aromatic chives. The best part? You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering with friends.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-12T16:18:20.635Z

I remember the first time I made Lemon Chive Shrimp Pasta for my friends. As the shrimp sautéed, the incredible aroma filled the kitchen, instantly making everyone hungry. I learned that using fresh chives truly elevates the dish, providing a subtle onion-like flavor that compliments the lemon's brightness. This method not only cooks the shrimp perfectly but also creates a delightful sauce when mixed with the cooked pasta.

Since then, it has become a favorite in my household. A tip I swear by is to reserve a bit of pasta water when draining; this starchy liquid helps to bind the sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite of pasta is coated in flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra chives on top before serving!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon brightness balanced with fresh chives
Quick preparation perfect for busy weeknights
Succulent shrimp that adds protein and satisfaction

Mastering the Shrimp

When preparing shrimp, timing is crucial. Overcooking can quickly turn these delicate morsels into rubbery bites. Aim for a cooking time of just 3-4 minutes until the shrimp is opaque and pink. If shrimp are cooked correctly, they should have a firm texture with a slight spring when bitten. Use a large skillet to ensure the shrimp have enough space; crowding them can result in uneven cooking.

Garlic is another key player in this dish, providing a fragrant base that enhances the shrimp's natural sweetness. Make sure to sauté the garlic until it's just fragrant, about a minute. If you cook it too long, it can become bitter. For added depth, consider using fresh garlic rather than pre-minced options, which can lack the same flavor intensity.

Pasta Perfection

For the best pasta texture in this dish, choose linguine or spaghetti as they hold the sauce well. Cooking the pasta to al dente is essential; this usually takes about 8-10 minutes depending on the brand. By reserving some pasta water, you can adjust the sauce's consistency, giving it a glossy finish without watering down the flavors.

Wenn the pasta is nearly done, start preparing the shrimp. This helps you seamlessly combine the two without having the pasta sit and become too soft. Toss the drained pasta in the skillet with the shrimp while it's still warm, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)

For the Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup fresh chives, chopped
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine these ingredients for a delicious meal.

Directions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Sauté the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and zest.

Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta and chives to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a sauce until desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Garnish with additional chives and lemon zest before serving. Enjoy your vibrant Lemon Chive Shrimp Pasta!

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

If you want a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes while cooking the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this dish further, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. The crunchy texture and the acidity of a salad create a delightful contrast to the creamy, zesty pasta. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added richness and flavor.

If you're looking to impress at a dinner party, serve the Lemon Chive Shrimp Pasta in individual bowls garnished with extra chives and lemon zest. This simple presentation makes the dish feel more gourmet and thoughtful, ensuring your guests enjoy a restaurant-quality experience.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re avoiding shrimp, feel free to substitute with chicken breast, cut into small pieces. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, typically about 5-7 minutes, then continue with the same steps. For a vegetarian option, roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers can be excellent choices, adding both flavor and texture.

Should fresh chives be hard to find, try using green onions or a mix of fresh herbs like parsley and basil. They will impart a different but delightful flavor profile to the dish while still keeping that fresh, vibrant essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for chives?

You can use green onions or finely chopped shallots for a similar flavor profile.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available in the market.