Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add your linguine (or other pasta of choice). Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
• Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. This starchy water will help bring everything together later. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp:

• While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tbsp of olive oil.
• Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Let them cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
• If you’re using red pepper flakes, add them at this point to infuse some spice into the sauce.
• Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option). Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Let the wine simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

4. Combine Pasta and Shrimp:

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a silky sauce that coats the noodles.
• Squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon and sprinkle the lemon zest (if using) to brighten up the flavors.
• Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss again to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta before serving.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Shrimp Pasta:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful and Savory: The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a rich, satisfying dish. The slight tang from the lemon and the freshness of parsley balance out the flavors beautifully.
• Customizable: You can make this dish your own by adding extra ingredients like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even a dash of cream for a creamy garlic shrimp pasta version. Adjust the level of spice by increasing or reducing the red pepper flakes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special date night, garlic shrimp pasta is always a hit. It feels gourmet but is simple enough to prepare on any given day.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pasta:

1. Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen. However, if using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so be careful not to overdo it. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
3. Don’t Skip the Lemon: Lemon adds a refreshing citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the garlic butter sauce. Don’t skip this step—it makes the dish bright and balanced.
4. Add Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water. The starchy water helps to bind the pasta to the sauce, creating a creamy, cohesive dish without needing to add cream.
5. Pair with a Simple Side: Garlic shrimp pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Conclusion:

Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect dish when you want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. The combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a meal that’s both comforting and gourmet. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this impressive dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, garlic shrimp pasta is always a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

So next time you need a dinner that’s as delicious as it is easy, grab some shrimp and pasta, and give this recipe a try!