shrimp pasta recipe

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Introduction:

Shrimp Pasta is the perfect blend of succulent seafood, aromatic garlic, tender pasta, and a silky sauce — making it one of the most beloved dishes on dinner tables around the world. Quick to prepare, yet fancy enough to serve guests, this recipe offers a savory, satisfying experience in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a weekday comfort meal or an elegant dinner, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta has your back.

Origin:

While pasta is Italian in origin and shrimp features heavily in Mediterranean, Cajun, and Asian cuisines, Shrimp Pasta as a concept has evolved into a global favorite — particularly popular in Italian-American cooking. This version leans into classic Mediterranean flavors, combining olive oil, garlic, and lemon with a buttery base for richness and depth.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

🧂 For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz (225g) linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine
  • Salt for boiling water

🍤 For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ tsp paprika (optional, for mild heat)

🧄 For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste

Optional Ingredients:

  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup baby spinach or arugula (tossed in at the end)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • ¼ cup heavy cream (for a creamy twist)
  • 1 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

  1. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sauté shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  1. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant (do not brown).
  3. Pour in white wine (or broth) and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Stir in lemon juice and optional red pepper flakes.

4. Combine Everything:

  1. Add drained pasta to the sauce along with the cooked shrimp.
  2. Add Parmesan and a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.
  3. Toss well until shrimp and pasta are coated.
  4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and adjust seasoning.

Tips for Success:

  • Don’t overcook shrimp: It becomes rubbery quickly — cook just until opaque.
  • Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor — avoid garlic powder.
  • Reserve pasta water: The starch helps emulsify the sauce for that silky texture.
  • If using wine, choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Serving Recommendations:

  • Serve with:
    • Crusty garlic bread
    • Side salad with lemon vinaigrette
    • Roasted asparagus or green beans
  • For a dinner party, pair with chilled white wine or sparkling water with citrus.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate):

  • Calories: 470
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 720mg

Adjust based on pasta type, cream, and additional ingredients.

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