Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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Shrimp Pasta Recipe – Quick, Delicious, and Restaurant-Quality!

Posted on February 22, 2025 by Admin

Looking for a quick yet luxurious seafood pasta dish? This Shrimp Pasta Recipe uses just a handful of ingredients to deliver a rich, restaurant-quality experience — right in your home kitchen! Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights and impressive enough for special occasions.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught preferred)
  • 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta (or gluten-free alternatives like rice or chickpea pasta)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Additions:

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a gentle heat)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for rich umami flavor)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for juicy bursts of acidity)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  • Arrange all ingredients within arm’s reach for a smoother cooking process (mise en place).
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  • Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions.
  • Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp

  • Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure better searing.
  • Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

  • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

  • Add shrimp in a single layer.
  • Cook for about 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
  • Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water.
  • Simmer for 1–2 minutes to slightly reduce.

Step 7: Assemble

  • Return shrimp and pasta to the skillet.
  • Toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
  • Adjust sauce thickness with more reserved pasta water if needed.
  • Finish with chopped parsley and any optional ingredients like Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or cherry tomatoes.

Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Ready in just 25 minutes — faster than ordering takeout!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 410
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 890mg

High in protein and moderate in calories — perfect for a satisfying yet balanced meal.

Healthier Alternatives

  • Swap half the pasta for zucchini noodles to cut carbs.
  • Use olive oil instead of butter for a heart-healthier fat profile.
  • Choose whole grain pasta to boost fiber.
  • Substitute shrimp with firm tofu or white fish if allergic.
  • Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a fresh arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
  • Add grilled lemon halves for tableside squeezing.
  • Pair with a crisp glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
  • Offer warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch.

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

  • Do not overcook shrimp — they become rubbery quickly.
  • Reserve pasta water — it’s the secret to a creamy sauce!
  • Dry shrimp before cooking — moisture prevents good searing.
  • Toss gently when combining shrimp and pasta to avoid breaking the pasta.

Storing Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore sauce texture.

Note: Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, as reheating can sometimes make it rubbery.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Pasta Recipe proves that gourmet meals don’t have to be complicated. With just a few quality ingredients and a simple cooking method, you’ll create a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish every time. Fast, flavorful, and foolproof — your new go-to seafood pasta!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before cooking.

What pasta works best?
Linguine and fettuccine are ideal, but spaghetti or angel hair work too.

Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely — just increase the red pepper flakes to taste.

How can I make this dairy-free?
Swap butter for olive oil and skip the Parmesan.

 

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