This Shrimp Pasta is one of those dishes that just feels special, even though it’s incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something a little more elevated than your usual fare, but it’s also impressive enough for a casual dinner party.
I love that it comes together quickly, and the flavors are just so bright and satisfying. It’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Recipe Overview: Shrimp Pasta
This dish is all about fresh, simple flavors that work together beautifully. We’re talking juicy shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, a light and lemony sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for good measure.
The sauce is really the star here – it’s not heavy or creamy, but it coats the pasta and shrimp perfectly, giving every bite a burst of flavor. It has a garlicky, lemony, slightly buttery taste that’s just irresistible.
This is a fantastic meal on its own, but you could easily pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce.
Detailed Ingredients for Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious pasta:
- Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined. I like to use medium or large shrimp, but you can use whatever size you prefer. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Pasta: 1 pound. Linguine or spaghetti work really well, but feel free to use your favorite shape.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. This is for cooking the shrimp and starting the sauce.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons. Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is key here!
- Lemon: 1, both the juice and zest. Adds brightness and acidity.
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. You can also use vegetable broth.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). Adds a little kick. Adjust to your spice preference.
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped. For garnish and freshness. You can also use basil or chives.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: optional.
If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining – this starchy water helps create a creamy sauce later.
- Cook the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. The shrimp should be firm and slightly curled.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquids: Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water helps emulsify the sauce.
- Season and Serve: Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese (optional). Give it a good toss to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
Variations & Tips for the best Shrimp Pasta
- Spice it Up: For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add Vegetables: Sauté some vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes with the garlic for added nutrients and flavor.
- Make it Creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end for a richer sauce.
- Make-Ahead: You can cook the shrimp and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine everything.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
- For the best experience, consider making this the same day.
Key Details
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Equipment you’ll need: Large pot, large skillet, colander