If you’re craving a dish that’s both indulgent and full of vibrant flavors, Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is the recipe you need. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender tortellini, and a creamy, zesty lemon garlic sauce creates a harmonious blend of richness and freshness. This dish is a perfect balance of indulgence and lightness, making it ideal for a cozy dinner or a dinner party.
The creamy sauce, with its hint of garlic and citrusy zing from the lemon, coats the tortellini and shrimp beautifully. It’s a dish that feels like a special occasion meal, yet it’s simple enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a comforting pasta dish with a twist, this recipe has everything you need. Let’s dive into the details!
2. Ingredients
For the Dish:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 9 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Directions
Preparing the Shrimp:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Tortellini:
- While the shrimp cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes for fresh tortellini or 7-9 minutes for frozen. Drain and set aside.
Making the Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the shrimp, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bringing It All Together:
- Add the cooked shrimp and tortellini to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the shrimp and pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
4. How to Prepare
Once the shrimp and tortellini are coated in the luscious lemon garlic cream sauce, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad for a complete meal.
5. Preparation Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total: 25 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a dinner party.
7. FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While tortellini is ideal for this recipe, you can use other pasta types such as fettuccine, penne, or farfalle.
2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
The sauce is best made fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently before adding the shrimp and tortellini.
3. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Add some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas to the dish for extra color and flavor.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini or any other gluten-free pasta of your choice.
8. Conclusion
Shrimp Tortellini with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the rich, creamy texture of the sauce with the lightness of shrimp and the comfort of pasta. The zesty lemon adds a refreshing contrast to the rich creaminess, making each bite perfectly balanced.
This recipe is quick, easy, and can easily be adapted to suit your preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. It’s a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and comfort that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy!