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Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This dish features tender shrimp cooked in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, tossed with al dente pasta for a comforting yet elegant meal. The rich aroma of garlic and butter combines with the juicy shrimp to create a visually appealing, glossy dish with a vibrant, inviting appearance. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, emphasizing simple ingredients and sensory pleasure.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 8 oz pasta spaghetti or linguine
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water from cooking pasta
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste seasoning

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pasta pot
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving a quarter cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, peel and devein the shrimp if needed. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add 3 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and start to bubble gently, filling the kitchen with a rich, nutty aroma.
    1 lb shrimp
  4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. The garlic should turn fragrant and slightly golden, filling the air with a warm aroma.
    1 lb shrimp
  5. Push the garlic to one side of the skillet, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, with a slight sizzle and a tender texture.
    1 lb shrimp
  6. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle red pepper flakes if using. Give everything a gentle stir, then add the reserved pasta water to create a glossy, flavorful sauce that coats the shrimp.
    1 lb shrimp
  7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together using tongs or a spatula. Coat the noodles evenly with the sauce, which should be shiny and cling to each strand.
    1 lb shrimp
  8. Turn off the heat, then sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish. Toss again gently to distribute the herbs and bring a fresh burst of color and flavor.
    1 lb shrimp
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve immediately while the aroma of garlic, lemon, and herbs is still strong and inviting.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or a dash of grated Parmesan for extra richness.