If you’re looking for a delicious dinner in just 10 minutes, here’s a recipe for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with goodness!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 2-3
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about 225g) pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne works well)
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional for extra zing)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant (but not burnt).
- If using red pepper flakes, add them now. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, followed by the lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), and a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the buttery garlic sauce.
4. Combine Shrimp and Pasta:
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them with the pasta. If needed, add more pasta water to get the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for richness and flavor.
5. Serve:
- Plate the pasta and shrimp, then garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Protein Options: You can swap shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even tofu if you prefer.
- Pasta Variations: Any pasta you have on hand works—use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any short pasta like penne or fusilli.
- Extra Flavor: For extra richness, you can add a splash of white wine when cooking the garlic or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta comes together in no time and is absolutely delicious—perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner!