Description:
Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines succulent shrimp with a creamy, garlicky sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is full of rich flavors, with a perfect balance of garlic, lemon, and herbs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this dish will impress everyone!
Origin:
Garlic shrimp pasta is a popular Italian-American dish, often served in various forms across the world. The dish combines the richness of garlic butter sauce with tender shrimp, making it a favorite in coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. It’s beloved for its simplicity and bold flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water)
For the Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ½ cup (120ml) dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (optional for a creamy version)
- 1 teaspoon freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta cooking water for later. Set the pasta aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not burnt.
- Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and white wine (or chicken broth). Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- If making a creamy version, add the heavy cream at this point and stir until well combined.
- Add the lemon juice, and stir to combine. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it up.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Serve the garlic shrimp pasta immediately, with extra lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly, and overcooking them will result in a tough texture.
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the shrimp in garlic, lemon, and herbs for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
- For a lighter version, you can skip the heavy cream and simply stick with the olive oil and wine-based sauce.
- If you prefer a bit more richness, add a little more butter to the sauce or top the pasta with extra cheese.
Recommendations:
- Serve the pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- If you like a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Nutrition (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: ~450-500 kcal
- Fat: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Protein: ~30g
- Sugar: ~3g
- Sodium: ~600mg
Note: Nutrition is an estimate and may vary based on ingredient substitutions or portion sizes.
Enjoy your Garlic Shrimp Pasta—a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
