
15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Quick and flavorful garlic shrimp pasta with a hint of lemon and parsley.
5 mins
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
2
Servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss well to coat the pasta in the garlic-infused oil.
Finish the dish: Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss everything together and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
Serve: Plate the pasta and shrimp. Garnish with additional parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Chef's Tips
- Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Shrimp Size: Use large or jumbo shrimp for best results. Smaller shrimp may overcook quickly.
- Garlic Tip: Mince the garlic finely for even distribution of flavor. You can also use a garlic press for convenience.
- Lemon Zest: For extra brightness, add some lemon zest along with the juice.
- Herb Variations: Substitute parsley with basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred level of heat.