Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect easy recipe for a busy weeknight. Pasta and sautéed shrimp are tossed in a creamy homemade white wine sauce for a light yet hearty meal. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh arugula salad for a delicious summer dinner ‘al fresco’.

Shrimp is an excellent weeknight protein because it cooks in about 5 minutes, whether you’re making Grilled Shrimp or shrimp tacos. In this recipe, the shrimp and sauce are all made in one pan as the pasta cooks, and the whole dish is table-ready in about 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The garlic and white wine sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the pasta provides a satisfying base. It’s a quick meal that feels luxurious, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Colander for draining pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 lb medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed
• 1 lb spaghetti noodles (more or less, depending on family size)
• 6-8 garlic cloves, according to personal taste, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• Olive oil (3 drizzles)
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh ground pepper
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Herbs (according to taste)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Boil pasta in water until tender. Save 1 cup of pasta water for later use. Add some oil, salt, and fresh herbs to the pasta water if you like. Drain and set aside when done.
2. While pasta is boiling, wash the shrimp.
3. Melt butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add shrimp and cook until they start to turn pink and curl slightly.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, then add a drizzle of olive oil and stir until shrimp is fully pink and curled.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and season with Italian seasoning, fresh ground pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt. Pour in reserved pasta water gradually, just enough to keep the mixture moist but not overly liquidy.
6. Toss all ingredients in the skillet until everything is well incorporated and heated through. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Do not overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and curled.
• Start by adding a small amount of reserved pasta water and gradually add more as needed.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti is classic, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.

Conclusion

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Happy cooking!