This Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy evenings. With juicy shrimp and a hint of garlic tossed in pasta, it comes together in no time!
You can whip it up in just 20 minutes! I love how it makes my kitchen smell amazing, and leftovers are perfect for lunch. Who doesn’t love a simple, delicious dinner? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works great, but feel free to swap it with any pasta you have on hand, like penne or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp can be a handy alternative. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice flavor, but you could also use vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer a different taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch. I personally love the smell and taste of fresh garlic!
White Wine: If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth works well for a similar flavor. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Butter: You can leave it out for a lighter option, or use a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! Here’s how to get that perfect texture:
- Start with a hot skillet; this helps to sear the shrimp quickly.
- Add shrimp in a single layer; overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Cook just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp will become tough!
Remember to season with salt and pepper during cooking for added flavor. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish any night of the week! 😊
Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
Shrimp:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For Cooking:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights! You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and 10 minutes preparing the shrimp and sauce. Quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti (or linguine) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, making sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Sauté Garlic and Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
3. Add Wine and Lemon Juice:
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
4. Mix in the Butter:
Add the butter to the skillet and stir until it melts, creating a smooth sauce.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp sauce. Toss everything together to combine well. If the sauce feels too dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the pasta, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your quick and tasty garlic shrimp pasta!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw quickly, place the shrimp in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, chicken broth works great as a substitute. You can also use vegetable broth for a non-meat option! The broth will still create a rich flavor in your sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Sure! Simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are many great options available, like rice or chickpea pasta, that work well in this recipe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out.
