15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; Salt, for boiling water; 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Juice of half a lemon

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Enjoy a quick and delicious meal with this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:52:35.002Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. With succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and a buttery garlic sauce, it’s a dish that comes together in a flash, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation in just 15 minutes
Savory garlic flavor paired with tender shrimp
Comforting pasta that satisfies your hunger

      

A Quick and Flavorful Meal

When you're short on time but craving something delicious, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect solution. With a minimal list of ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you'll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. The combination of garlic, shrimp, and pasta creates a delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests.

This recipe is not only quick but also adaptable. You can easily swap out the shrimp for chicken or vegetables, making it versatile for various dietary preferences. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this pasta dish can be customized to suit your needs while still delivering on flavor.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta

To achieve the best texture, always cook your pasta in a large pot of salted water. This not only enhances the flavor but helps the pasta cook evenly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later on.

Remember to check the pasta for doneness a minute or two before the package instructions suggest. You want it to be al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This will ensure that your pasta holds up well when combined with the garlic shrimp mixture.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients makes a significant difference in the flavor of your dish. Fresh garlic provides a robust taste that dried garlic simply cannot replicate. If possible, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen, as they will have a better texture and flavor when cooked. Additionally, fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note that elevates the entire meal.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with additional seasonings or toppings. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of lemon zest can further enhance the dish's flavor profile. This allows you to personalize the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
Salt, for boiling water

For the Garlic Shrimp

300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Juice of half a lemon

Make sure to have everything ready to make the cooking process smooth!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, squeezing in the lemon juice and tossing everything together. Cook for an additional minute. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious homemade garlic shrimp pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine while cooking the shrimp.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the garlic shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the dish’s moisture and prevent it from drying out.

To maintain the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to consume the pasta within the first day. Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, so try to avoid freezing this dish if possible, as the shrimp may become rubbery upon thawing.

Pairing Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the pasta, creating a balanced meal. You might also consider serving it alongside a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which enhances the flavors of the shrimp and garlic.

For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette. This allows you to soak up any remaining sauce on your plate, making for a truly satisfying dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any pasta of your choice, such as linguine or fettuccine.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and garlic ahead of time and combine with pasta when ready to serve.

→ What sides go well with this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread would complement the dish nicely.