Elevate your weeknight dinners with this delightful Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors and a comforting texture. Perfect for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike, this recipe brings together succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a tangy hint of lemon for a meal that’s both satisfying and elegant.
The foundation of this dish starts with perfectly cooked pasta. Choose your favorite type, whether it’s spaghetti, fettuccine, or another variety, and cook it until al dente for the best texture. While the pasta cooks, the magic happens in the skillet with the shrimp. Large, juicy shrimp are sautéed in olive oil until they turn a beautiful pink, adding a rich seafood flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.
Garlic is the star ingredient in the sauce, infusing the dish with its unmistakable aroma and taste. Sautéed until fragrant but not browned, the garlic creates a savory base that’s complemented by a touch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, if desired. A splash of white wine or chicken broth deglazes the pan, picking up any flavorful bits left from cooking the shrimp and creating a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
Lemon juice adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the dish, while fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese bring a touch of herbaceous freshness and creaminess, respectively. The combination of these ingredients creates a well-balanced sauce that enhances the pasta and shrimp without overwhelming them.
Once combined, the pasta and shrimp are tossed together with the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld and the pasta to soak up the delicious garlic-infused liquid. The result is a dish that’s both flavorful and hearty, perfect for serving to family or guests. Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan for a final touch of elegance.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not just about great taste—it’s also about convenience. It comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With its blend of savory shrimp, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon, this pasta dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience from the comfort of your home.
Enjoy every bite of this delectable Garlic Shrimp Pasta and savor the balance of flavors that make it a truly memorable meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic brown.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the lemon juice and cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Finish and Serve:
- Stir in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute until everything is heated through.
- Serve:
- Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips:
- Pasta Cooking: Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Shrimp: For best results, use large shrimp and cook them until just pink and opaque to avoid overcooking.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth works perfectly and adds a similar depth of flavor.
- Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps to thicken the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta, so don’t forget to save some!
Enjoy this quick and flavorful Garlic Shrimp Pasta, perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
