Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Generously salt the water for flavor.
Cook Pasta: Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
Drain: Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until the butter melts and sizzles.
Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add Shrimp: Toss 1 pound of raw shrimp (peeled and deveined) into the skillet.
Cook: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to coat the pasta in the garlicky butter sauce.
Adjust Consistency: If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Season: Add Italian seasoning and salt to taste.
Add Parmesan: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until melted and incorporated.
Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate: Serve hot, directly from the skillet or transfer to individual plates.
Optional Toppings: Offer additional Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Shrimp Pasta pairs wonderfully with light, complementary sides:

Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a touch of sweetness.
Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs perfectly with the garlic and shrimp.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of reserved pasta water or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Freezing: While the pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the shrimp separately for up to 2 months and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Creamy Shrimp Pasta: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamy, indulgent version.
Vegetable-Loaded: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli florets for added color and nutrition.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lighter dish.
Herby Twist: Incorporate fresh basil or thyme into the sauce for a different flavor profile.
Citrusy Boost: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, refreshing note.

Conclusion

Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate blend of simplicity and elegance, making it a dish you’ll want to cook again and again. The tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to create a satisfying, flavorful meal that never fails to impress.

Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sauté the shrimp shells in the olive oil before starting the recipe, then remove them to create a more flavorful base.

So, grab your skillet, boil some pasta, and let the aroma of garlic and butter fill your kitchen. Trust me, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite!