This Garlic and Shrimp Pasta recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity and bold flavours. With tender, juicy shrimp cooked in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, combined with a hint of heat from chili flakes and the freshness of lemon, it’s a dish that feels luxurious but is incredibly easy to make. The linguini absorbs all the flavours, creating a perfect harmony of savory, zesty, and slightly spicy notes. It’s finished with grated cheese and fresh parsley, adding a creamy texture and a pop of color to the plate.
Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or something a little special to serve for guests, this garlic shrimp pasta is versatile enough for any occasion. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a meal that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.
With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, this recipe delivers maximum flavour with minimal fuss. Plus, the combination of shrimp, garlic, lemon, and pasta is always a crowd-pleaser, making it a dish you’ll want to return to again and again.
Quick and Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Flavor-Packed Dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 5-6 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Red chili flakes
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Linguini or spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 1/2 cup Reserved pasta water
- ¼ cup Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper. (can add other spices as desired) In a hot pan, cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the red chili flakes, followed by the lemon juice and zest. Let it simmer for another minute to combine the flavors.
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked linguini or spaghetti to the pan, along with 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water. Stir well to coat the pasta in the buttery garlic sauce.
- Return the Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan and gently toss everything together.
- Finish with Cheese and Parsley: Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Enjoy this savory, buttery, and zesty Garlic and Shrimp Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It's a quick, delicious dinner that’s sure to impress!