Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your spaghetti (or pasta of choice) and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Make the Sauce:
   Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan and release any flavorful bits left from the shrimp. Let the wine cook for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly. If you want a creamier sauce, add the heavy cream at this point and stir to combine. Allow the cream to simmer for a minute or two to thicken up.
5. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:
   Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated in the garlic butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some reserved pasta water, a little bit at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Season and Garnish:
   Season the pasta with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice for a fresh, citrusy pop of flavor. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to combine. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
7. Serve:
   Plate your garlic shrimp pasta and enjoy immediately while it’s still warm. Serve with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want an extra cheesy touch.

Why Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a Must-Try:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and shrimp creates an explosion of flavors that are simple but incredibly satisfying. The addition of Parmesan adds a touch of richness that elevates the dish to another level.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. If you like a bit more heat, add extra red pepper flakes. For a lighter version, skip the heavy cream, or you can swap it for a bit of olive oil to keep the dish lighter.
• Impressive Yet Simple: Despite being quick and easy, this dish has a touch of elegance that’s perfect for entertaining or date night. It looks impressive but doesn’t require complicated techniques.
• Versatile: You can switch up the pasta type, use gluten-free pasta, or even add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to make it even heartier.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Pasta:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the skillet to avoid rubbery shrimp.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. Be sure to mince it finely so it infuses the sauce without becoming too strong.
• Add a Protein Boost: While shrimp is the star of this dish, you can add other proteins, like chicken or scallops, to mix things up.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: The amount of pasta water you add can change the thickness of the sauce. Add small amounts at a time and adjust until the sauce coats the pasta just right.

Final Thoughts:

Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a perfect balance of light and indulgent, offering rich flavors without feeling heavy. It’s the kind of dish that can be made for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, yet always feels satisfying and luxurious. With its bold garlic flavor, tender shrimp, and creamy sauce, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. So, next time you’re looking for a quick, flavorful meal, try this recipe—it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!