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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.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

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

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Colander
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta:
  2. 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.
  3. Sauté the Shrimp:
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Make the Garlic Sauce:
  7. 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.
  8. Combine Everything:
  9. 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.
  10. Serve:
  11. 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.