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Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish combining succulent shrimp, fresh garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe offers a balance of protein and carbs with vibrant, bold flavors that impress every time.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 225g (8 oz) fresh or thawed, peeled and deveined shrimp
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 225g (8 oz) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta of choice according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving one cup of the pasta cooking water.
  2. Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  3. Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and garlic. Toss gently to combine. If the mixture seems dry, stir in some of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce that clings to the pasta.
  4. Add Finishing Touches: Remove the skillet from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish, then sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the shrimp to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor without bitterness.
  • Reserve pasta water to help bind the sauce and keep the pasta moist.
  • Choose quality olive oil to enhance flavor with subtle fruitiness.
  • Fresh parsley adds brightness and color to the dish—don’t skip it.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic shrimp pasta, quick shrimp pasta, seafood pasta, easy weeknight dinner, Italian pasta recipe, garlic pasta with shrimp