Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal to impress your family or friends, Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a perfect choice. This dish combines tender shrimp, al dente spaghetti, and a garlic butter sauce that’s packed with flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy schedules. So, let’s dive into why you should make this dish and how to whip it up in no time.

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• Quick and Easy: It takes less than 30 minutes to cook, making it great for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a rich flavor that enhances the shrimp and pasta.
• Healthier Option: Shrimp is a lean protein, and with the addition of fresh parsley and lemon, you’re packing in some nutrients.
• Versatile: You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste, such as adding vegetables or using different types of pasta.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the shrimp and bright green parsley make this dish visually appealing.

How to Make Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Making Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is straightforward. Follow the steps listed below, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and cooked spaghetti.
6. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Serving Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is simple yet impactful. Place a generous portion on each plate, ensuring a good amount of shrimp and pasta are included. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional fresh parsley and a few lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish. This not only adds to the look and presentation but also allows your guests to adjust the acidity to their preference.

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine to complete the meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a delightful dining experience.

How to Store Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

If you have leftovers, storing Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta properly helps to maintain its flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:

• Cool it Down: Before storing, let the pasta cool to room temperature.
• Use an Airtight Container: Place the pasta in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out.
• Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheat: To reheat, add a little water or olive oil to a skillet and warm it over low heat. Stir gently until heated through.

Tips to Make Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Here are a few handy tips to ensure your Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a hit every time:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to prevent them from becoming tough.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley make a big difference in flavor. If possible, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen.
• Balance the Flavors: Taste your dish before serving. Depending on your preference, you might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
• Add Veggies: Consider adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Variation

There are many ways to put a twist on this classic recipe:

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added texture and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Creamy Version: For a rich and creamy pasta, mix in some heavy cream or cream cheese after adding the shrimp.
• Herb Variants: Instead of parsley, experiment with fresh basil or cilantro for different flavor profiles.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the skillet.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to serve Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta fresh for the best texture. While you can store leftovers, the pasta may become mushy when reheated.

Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free spaghetti or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

How can I make this dish more filling?

To make Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta more filling, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or adding a protein like grilled chicken or sausage alongside the shrimp.

By following these guidelines and the detailed recipe above, you’ll create a delicious Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta that will impress anyone at the dinner table. Enjoy cooking!

Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

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• Author: amanda-hart
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Pescatarian

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Description

A quick and elegant pasta dish featuring tender shrimp and a flavorful garlic butter sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and cooked spaghetti.
6. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For a richer dish, mix in some heavy cream or cream cheese after adding the shrimp.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 200mg

Keywords: shrimp pasta, garlic pasta, quick dinner