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Making **Garlic Shrimp Pasta** is a breeze, and the result is a beautiful, flavorful dish that will impress anyone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this easy recipe:
#### **1. Cook the Pasta**
#### **2. Cook the Shrimp**
While the pasta is cooking, heat **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the **shrimp** in a single layer and season with **salt** and **pepper**. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side, until they are fully cooked and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of **olive oil** if needed. Add the **minced garlic** and **red pepper flakes** (if using) and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Next, pour in the **white wine** (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits of shrimp or garlic stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine cook down for about 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
#### **5. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp**
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. If the sauce seems a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved **pasta water** to loosen it up. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss everything together until the shrimp and pasta are well coated in the sauce.
Once everything is combined, taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more **salt**, **pepper**, or **lemon juice** if needed. Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with fresh **parsley** and a generous sprinkle of **Parmesan cheese** (optional).
Serve immediately, and enjoy this irresistible combination of garlic, shrimp, and pasta!
– **Use Tail-On Shrimp**: For a more dramatic presentation, consider using shrimp with tails on. They’re just as easy to peel and give the dish a more elegant look.
– **Spicy Kick**: If you love spice, feel free to add more **red pepper flakes** or even a dash of **cayenne pepper** to the garlic and oil.
– **Creamy Version**: For a richer, creamier sauce, you can add a little more heavy cream or even a dollop of **cream cheese**. This will give the sauce a velvety texture and extra richness.
– **Add Veggies**: Boost the nutritional value and flavor of the dish by adding **spinach**, **cherry tomatoes**, or **asparagus** to the skillet. Sauté them with the garlic and red pepper flakes for a well-rounded meal.
– **Pasta Variations**: While spaghetti is a classic choice, this recipe works just as well with other types of pasta, such as **linguine**, **penne**, or **fettuccine**. Try a gluten-free or whole-wheat pasta for a healthier option.
This **Garlic Shrimp Pasta** is the ultimate comfort food with a twist of elegance. The garlic and lemon sauce brings the shrimp to life, while the pasta serves as a perfect base to soak up all those incredible flavors. The dish is light enough for a weekday dinner but refined enough for a special occasion, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
Its **bold yet simple flavors**, **quick prep time**, and **elegant presentation** make it a crowd-pleaser that’s always sure to impress. Plus, with just a few pantry staples, it’s an affordable and accessible dish that delivers big on taste.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a tasty dinner to enjoy on a busy evening, **Garlic Shrimp Pasta** is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to time and time again. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite weeknight meal!
