Shrimp and Garlic Pasta (Print View)

Shrimp, garlic, and lemon shine in this pasta topped with parsley. A quick, flavorful main for any night.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
02 - 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for pasta water)

→ Shrimp

03 - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
04 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Sauce

06 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
08 - 6 garlic cloves, finely sliced
09 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
10 - 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
11 - Zest of 1 lemon
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
13 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

→ Garnish

14 - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
15 - Lemon wedges

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve approximately 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta thoroughly.
02 - While the pasta is cooking, season the prepared shrimp with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
03 - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the hot skillet. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until the shrimp are just pink and opaque. Transfer the seared shrimp to a plate and set aside.
04 - Reduce the skillet's heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the sliced garlic and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for approximately 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
05 - Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet, using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the liquid to simmer and reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
06 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta cooking water. Toss vigorously to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
07 - Return the seared shrimp to the skillet. Add the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Toss all ingredients together until well combined and heated through, which should take approximately 1-2 minutes.
08 - Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with optional freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses easy-to-find pantry staples and fresh ingredients
  • Quick to prepare yet elegant enough for guests
  • Bursting with classic Italian flavors plus a bright lemon finish
  • Customizable with your favorite pasta or add-ins
02 -
  • High in lean protein from shrimp
  • Balanced with healthy fats and lots of flavor
  • Kid friendly if you skip the red pepper
  • Freezes well before adding fresh parsley or lemon
03 -
  • Salt your pasta water well to infuse every bite with flavor
  • Do not overcrowd the skillet while cooking shrimp for proper browning
  • Reserve some pasta water for emulsifying the sauce—it really does make a difference
  • Extra lemon juice just before serving keeps everything bright and prevents heaviness

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