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Step by step Pan-Fried Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Viral TikTok Freezer Meal

Pan-Fried Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Viral TikTok Freezer Meal

Sara Coleman
This viral TikTok recipe transforms a freezer staple into a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal in minutes. Juicy shrimp and al dente pasta are tossed in a bright, aromatic lemon-garlic sauce for a zesty, satisfying dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 485 kcal

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 12 oz linguine pasta or spaghetti
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 4 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 6 clove garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1 tsp salt plus more for pasta water
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the sauce base (garlic, lemon, red pepper) and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Store separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.
Substitutions: Use chicken breast or scallops instead of shrimp. For a dairy-free version, ensure no butter is used. Gluten-free pasta works well.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.