Shrimp Scampi Linguine

Ingredients

• 200 g linguine
• 250 g shrimp
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp olive oil(optional)
• 0.5 tsp kosher salt(optional)
• 0.25 tsp black pepper(optional)
• 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente (about 10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and black pepper. Mince the garlic and finely chop the parsley; zest and juice the lemon.

3. 3

   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the olive oil (if using). Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2 minutes per side; remove to a plate.

4. 4

   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté the garlic (and red pepper flakes if using) for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add lemon zest and lemon juice, then stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to make a light sauce.

5. 5

   Add the drained linguine to the skillet and toss to coat, adding more pasta water as needed. Return shrimp to the pan, toss again briefly, and finish with parsley. Serve immediately.