Lemon Butter Shrimp Linguine with Capers

This Lemon Butter Shrimp Linguine with Capers is fresh, vibrant, and ready in under 30 minutes for a restaurant-quality weeknight dinner!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

8 oz linguine pasta the perfect shape to twirl and soak up the sauce
1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined, choose medium to large size for the best texture
3 tbsp unsalted butter adds richness and smoothness to the sauce
2 tbsp olive oil helps cook the shrimp without burning the butter
4 cloves garlic minced for aromatic punch
1 lemon juiced and zested for bright, fresh flavor
2 tbsp capers rinsed, adds a briny, tangy pop
salt and pepper to taste, essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors
fresh parsley chopped for garnish, adds color and a hint of herbal freshness
grated Parmesan cheese for serving, optional but highly recommended for an extra savory layer

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and rinsed capers. Let it simmer gently for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Linguine and Shrimp

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss well to coat in the lemon butter sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Return the shrimp to the pan and toss everything together just to rewarm and combine.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and generous amounts of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with a fresh lemon wedge on the side if desired.

Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a silky finish.
Use medium to large shrimp and avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Substitute gluten-free or low-carb noodles to accommodate dietary preferences.
For a dairy-free version, replace butter with plant-based alternatives and skip Parmesan.
Add red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick if desired.