15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Quick and flavorful garlic shrimp pasta with a hint of lemon and parsley.
5 mins
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
2
Servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Nutrition Facts
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Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté the shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Cook the garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with garlic. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
Finish the dish: Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
Serve: Divide the pasta between plates. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and additional parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Chef's Tips
- Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.
- Shrimp Size: Use large or jumbo shrimp for best texture and flavor.
- Garlic Tip: Mince the garlic finely for even distribution of flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley makes a big difference, but you can substitute with 1 tbsp dried parsley if needed.
- Lemon Zest: For extra brightness, add some lemon zest along with the juice.
