Shrimp Scampi Linguine

1 pound linguine noodles, white or wheat

4 Tablespoons unsalted butter

3 Tablespoons olive oil

5 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound large shrimp, about 20 shrimp, peeled and deveined

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley, chopped

lemon zest, from 1/2 of a large lemon

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, about 2 lemons

1/2 lemon, thinly sliced in half-rounds

crushed red pepper flakes, to taste

1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add a little bit of oil and salt to the boiling water and cook the linguine according to package instructions.

Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper and set aside.

Add the butter and olive oil to an extra-large skillet over medium-low. Once the butter has melted, add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, being careful not to burn it. 

Add the shrimp and sauté just until they turn pink, about 4-5 minutes, tossing often.

Remove from the heat and add the parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon slices, and red pepper flakes. 

Toss to combine. Season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

When the pasta is cooked, drain the water and add the noodles to the sauté pan. 

Top with fresh parmesan cheese and toss everything gently to combine. Serve.

Notes

Variations:

Add White Wine: Add 1/4 cup of white wine in step 3, sautéing for a few minutes to let it cook down a little.

Add Veggies: Toss in some asparagus and cherry tomatoes.

Zucchini Noodles: For a healthier twist, swap out the linguine for zucchini noodles.