15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 200g pasta (spaghetti or linguine); 250g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

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Experience the delightful flavors of our 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta, a quick and easy dish perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion.

Created by

India Rutherford

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:49:34.200Z

This quick and flavorful pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic sauce, making it a perfect choice for a delightful meal in just 15 minutes.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Bursting with flavor from fresh garlic and herbs
Light yet satisfying, great for any occasion

      

A Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When life gets busy, having quick and delicious meal options is essential. Our 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the ideal solution for hectic weeknights. This dish combines the satisfying texture of al dente pasta with succulent shrimp, all infused with the robust flavor of garlic. It's a meal that comes together in no time, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet experience without the lengthy preparation. Whether you’re racing home from work or need to whip up something special at the last minute, this recipe has your back.

Not only is this pasta dish quick to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Swap in different types of pasta, or add seasonal vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor. This flexibility ensures that you can keep the meal fresh and exciting, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire.

The Power of Fresh Ingredients

The key to elevating this simple dish lies in the quality of your ingredients. Fresh garlic and herbs bring a burst of flavor that dried alternatives simply can't match. The aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with shrimp is irresistible, and the addition of fresh parsley not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a fresh, bright taste that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Using high-quality shrimp is equally important. Look for wild-caught shrimp when available, as they tend to have a superior flavor and texture compared to farmed varieties. This small choice can significantly impact your dish, transforming a simple pasta meal into a culinary delight.

Perfect Pairings

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Pasta

200g pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
250g shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Season

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine, and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir in the chopped parsley.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Tips for Success

To ensure your shrimp are cooked perfectly, keep a close eye on them as they sauté. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, so aim to remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes, depending on their size.

If you're cooking for a crowd, this recipe is easily scalable. Simply increase the quantities of each ingredient while maintaining the same cooking method. This means you can serve up to six or more portions in the same amount of time, making it a fantastic option for gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent the pasta from drying out, and heat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, the flavors will deepen after a day in the fridge, making leftovers an equally delightful option. Just remember to add a touch of fresh parsley before serving to brighten up the dish again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti and linguine are great choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic and shrimp in advance and combine them with the pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for parsley?

You can use fresh basil or cilantro for a different flavor.