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Plate of Garlic Shrimp Pasta garnished with parsley and lemon slices

Garlic Shrimp Pasta

A delightful dish featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a flavorful garlic sauce, served over your choice of pasta, perfect for quick meals or special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 200-250 g spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 tbsp salt for pasta water
Main ingredients
  • 250-300 g raw shrimp, peeled & deveined Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, finely minced Do not burn the garlic to avoid bitterness.
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes Optional, adjust according to spice preference.
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 120 ml pasta cooking water, reserved
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice, fresh
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Optional but recommended.
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 120 ml of pasta water, then drain.
Preparing the Shrimp
  1. Pat the shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Sautéing the Garlic
  1. In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, without burning the garlic.
Cooking the Shrimp
  1. Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1.5-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Building the Sauce
  1. Add the reserved pasta water and lemon juice. Stir well to create a light sauce.
Combining the Pasta
  1. Add the cooked pasta into the pan. Toss everything together until fully coated.
Finishing & Serving
  1. Add parsley and Parmesan if using. Adjust salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Feel free to add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.