This flavorful Garlic Shrimp Pasta combines succulent shrimp with a buttery garlic sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. Quick to prepare, this dish is packed with rich flavors and is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles (adjust quantity based on servings needed)
- 6-8 garlic cloves, minced (adjust according to taste)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Olive oil (about 3 drizzles)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh ground pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, to taste)
Directions:
- Boil the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook until tender, following the package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water for later use. To enhance the flavor, you can add a little olive oil, salt, and fresh herbs to the boiling water. Once done, drain the pasta and set aside. - Prepare the Shrimp:
While the pasta is boiling, rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Set aside. - Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and start to curl. - Add Garlic:
Once the shrimp are nearly cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and lightly golden. - Add Olive Oil and Seasonings:
Drizzle in about 3 tablespoons of olive oil, then season the shrimp with Italian seasoning, fresh ground pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt to taste. Stir everything to combine, letting the flavors meld for 2-3 minutes. - Combine Pasta and Shrimp:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Stir well to coat the pasta with the buttery garlic sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the dish reaches your desired consistency—neither too dry nor swimming in liquid. Start with 1/4 cup of the pasta water and adjust as needed. - Toss and Serve:
Toss all the ingredients together in the skillet, ensuring the pasta and shrimp are fully incorporated and heated through. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Enjoy!
Serve the garlic shrimp pasta hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal right at home.