Introduction
Shrimp and Garlic Pasta is a perfect choice for a quick and elegant meal, bursting with flavors of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. The shrimp add a succulent, savory taste, while the garlic and lemon bring a bright, fresh twist. Ready in just under 30 minutes, this recipe is a wonderful option for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Colander
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (spaghetti or linguine works well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the shrimp and lemon juice. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan if desired.
Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Adjust Spice Level: For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes, or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Customize the Herbs: Add fresh basil or thyme along with the parsley for more herbal flavor.
Conclusion
This Shrimp and Garlic Pasta is a simple, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your table in just minutes. With tender shrimp, garlicky pasta, and a fresh lemon finish, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy with a crisp side salad and some crusty bread for a full meal!
Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Recipe
Quick and delicious Shrimp and Garlic Pasta made in under 30 minutes! This easy recipe combines succulent shrimp, garlic, and a hint of lemon for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Colander
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340 g pasta (spaghetti or linguine works well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter divided
- 1 lb 450 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a bit of heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon about 2 tbsp
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan optional, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the shrimp and lemon juice. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan if desired.
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