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Shrimp Garlic Pasta

This shrimp garlic pasta is a quick, satisfying dish that relies on simple ingredients like garlic, fresh shrimp, and good pasta. The dish features tender shrimp cooked in fragrant garlic and red pepper flakes, coated in a glossy sauce that soaks into the al dente pasta, resulting in a comforting, flavorful plate with vibrant textures and aromas.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 470
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces dried spaghetti or linguine or your favorite pasta
  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic fresh, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil good quality
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Slotted spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring Cups

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain, reserving about half a cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
  3. Increase the heat slightly and add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink, opaque, and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  4. Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil if needed, then toss in the drained pasta. Pour in the lemon juice and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated with the fragrant garlic oil and sauce, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine and heat everything through for another minute.
  6. Season with salt, black pepper, and more lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor. Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference. Reserve pasta water—it helps create that silky, glossy sauce. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.