Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Imagine this: perfectly cooked shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich, garlicky sauce that coats every bite in buttery, savory goodness. That’s exactly what you get with this Garlic Shrimp Pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy, but is so simple to whip up—you could serve it for a weeknight dinner or even impress guests at a dinner party. The garlic adds depth and warmth, while the shrimp delivers that sweet, briny flavor that’s just so irresistible. And let’s not forget the creamy pasta, which makes everything come together in the most mouthwatering way. Trust me, this is the dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Here’s why this dish is about to become a staple in your kitchen:

Bold and Flavorful: The garlic, butter, and shrimp bring a burst of flavor that is both rich and satisfying without being overwhelming. It’s a classic combination that never gets old.

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something special without all the fuss.

Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding extra veggies, using different types of pasta, or even switching up the seasoning to your taste. Whether you like it spicy or mild, it’s totally adaptable!

Comforting and Filling: The combination of pasta and shrimp makes for a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Elegant Yet Simple: It looks impressive on the plate, but it’s super easy to make. Perfect for when you want something that feels fancy, but isn’t complicated.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the show! Sweet, tender shrimp cooked to perfection.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness to the dish.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punchy, aromatic flavor.
• Lemon juice: A little citrus zest to brighten up the dish and balance the richness.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a slight kick of heat, if you like a little spice.

For the Pasta:

• Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work well): Your base for the dish. Choose your favorite type of pasta for the perfect texture.
• Butter: To create a luscious, buttery sauce that ties everything together.
• Parmesan cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds creaminess and a salty, nutty flavor.
• Fresh parsley: For garnish, adding color and a touch of freshness.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions. Once it’s al dente, drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later. This starchy water will help thicken the sauce and make it silky smooth.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them! Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this point.

4. Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, making sure the pasta is coated in that delicious garlic-butter goodness.

5. Add the Finishing Touches

Stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time to help create a silky, smooth sauce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and shrimp to add a pop of brightness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta in bowls or on a platter, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The extra lemon zest and garlic sauce will make each bite burst with flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 16g

• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 170mg
  Sodium: 610mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 36g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
  Protein: 20g
  Vitamin A: 8%
  Vitamin C: 15%
  Calcium: 10%
  Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for pairing with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the richness of the pasta. A simple Caesar salad or a bright arugula salad would work great.

Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette to sop up the extra sauce. It’s a carb lover’s dream!

Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes add both color and a healthy crunch to the meal.

Wine: Pair this dish with a glass of white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the buttery richness of the pasta and shrimp.

Additional Tips

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—usually in about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery, so be sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they’re opaque and pink.

Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, fresh garlic is a must. Pre-minced garlic doesn’t have the same punch, and it’s worth the extra couple of minutes to chop it yourself.

Add Extra Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even peas to the dish to make it even heartier.

Make It Spicy: If you love a little spice, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A1: Yes, frozen shrimp will work just fine! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking, and pat them dry to avoid excess water in the pan.

Q2: Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

A2: Absolutely! Just swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go. The garlic butter sauce will still be just as flavorful.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A3: This is best made fresh, as pasta tends to get a little mushy when stored. However, you can prep the shrimp and garlic sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Just combine them with the freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Q4: How do I reheat leftovers?

A4: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to help bring the sauce back to life. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Q5: Can I add more veggies to this recipe?

A5: Yes! Adding veggies like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes will not only add extra flavor but also make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

Q6: How do I make this dish spicier?

A6: You can add more red pepper flakes, or even drizzle some hot sauce over the top for an added kick. Adjust the heat to your personal preference!

Q7: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A7: Absolutely! Linguine, fettuccine, or penne all work great with this garlic shrimp sauce. Pick your favorite pasta shape!

Q8: Can I use bottled lemon juice?

A8: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work as well. Just make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning.

Q9: Can I make this dish without butter?

A9: Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter version. The flavor will be a little different, but still delicious!

Q10: What kind of shrimp should I use?

A10: For the best flavor and texture, use large, deveined shrimp. You can use fresh or frozen, but fresh shrimp will give the best result.

Conclusion

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that’s bursting with flavor. With its buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this dish is always a winner. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s loved by so many!

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