Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner Solution

Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner Solution

When it comes to quick, delicious, and satisfying meals, garlic shrimp pasta is the ultimate winner. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, this dish can transform any ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience. The best part? You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.

A Dish with Endless Appeal

Garlic shrimp pasta combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with the robust flavors of garlic, butter, and olive oil. It’s a recipe that originated in the coastal regions, where fresh seafood meets the rich, buttery simplicity of Italian cooking. This dish brings together the best of land and sea, offering a restaurant-quality meal you can easily create at home.

I first fell in love with this dish during a vacation along the Amalfi Coast, where freshly caught shrimp and handmade pasta were staples at every seaside café. This recipe brings back those cherished memories, delivering the same vibrant flavors right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: A perfect balance of garlic, herbs, and buttery shrimp.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap the pasta for a low-carb alternative.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike!

Step-by-Step Guide to Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb medium shrimp (deveined, tails removed)
• 1 lb spaghetti noodles (or your choice of pasta)
• 6-8 garlic cloves, minced (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup butter
• 3 drizzles olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh herbs (parsley or basil, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
2. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet.
3. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until pink and slightly curled.
4. Flip the shrimp, add the minced garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

3. Build the Flavor

1. Add olive oil to the skillet with the shrimp, and stir to coat.
2. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, freshly ground pepper, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt.

4. Combine with Pasta

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the noodles in the buttery garlic sauce.
2. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the dish reaches your desired consistency. The sauce should lightly coat the pasta without being too watery.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Serve hot, with grated Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pasta

1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances the flavor and texture of the dish. If using frozen, ensure they’re thawed and patted dry before cooking.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Remove it from heat as soon as it turns pink and curls.
3. Adjust Heat: Add more or less red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
4. Make It Creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream before adding the pasta.