Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Simple and Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a classic, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need to whip up something quick and satisfying. This recipe combines tender shrimp with al dente spaghetti, all tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a romantic evening, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed
- Fresh shrimp will give the best flavor, but frozen shrimp that has been thawed will work just as well.
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles
- Adjust the amount depending on the number of people you are serving.
- 6-8 garlic cloves, minced
- Adjust the amount according to your personal taste preference. Garlic lovers may want to add more!
- 1/4 cup butter
- Butter adds richness to the dish, creating a creamy base for the garlic sauce.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- Start by cleaning the shrimp, making sure they are deveined and have their tails removed. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures that they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the garlic and butter.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
3. Sauté the Garlic
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
4. Cook the Shrimp
- Add the shrimp to the skillet with the garlic and butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough.
5. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp
- Once the shrimp are cooked, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta seems dry, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
6. Serve
- Serve the Garlic Shrimp Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or a slice of garlic bread.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and garlic will give you the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water from cooking the pasta helps to bind the sauce to the noodles and can be used to adjust the consistency of the dish.
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: For a fresh, zesty kick, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the pasta just before serving.
- Experiment with Herbs: While this recipe calls for parsley, you can experiment with other herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for different flavor profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the spaghetti with any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute the butter with olive oil. However, the butter adds a richness that complements the garlic and shrimp, making the dish more indulgent.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli to make the dish more nutritious and colorful. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding the shrimp.
Is this dish spicy?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can easily add a bit of heat by sprinkling in some red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water or extra butter to refresh the sauce.
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors. With its rich garlic butter sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be dressed up with additional ingredients or kept simple for a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy!