If you’re in the mood for a quick, flavorful dinner that feels like a treat but comes together in a flash, this Fast Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy shrimp sautéed to perfection with fragrant garlic, tangy cherry tomatoes, and a splash of white wine come together with al dente spaghetti for a dish bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a vital role, from the sweetness of cherry tomatoes to the aromatic punch of garlic, creating a harmonious balance that makes this pasta truly special.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp ensure tender bites packed with seafood goodness.
- 12 ounces spaghetti: Classic pasta that twirls beautifully and holds the sauce perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich creaminess that rounds out the flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Offers that essential garlicky aroma that defines the dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Brightens the plate with a juicy pop and lovely acidity.
- 1/2 cup white wine: Brings depth and a subtle tang that elevates the shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds fresh citrus notes that lighten and brighten the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides just the right kick of heat without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a vibrant, herbaceous touch and a splash of green color.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce, giving that irresistible, savory finish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing and building layers of flavor.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds warmth and mild spice as a seasoning base.
How to Make Fast Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the spaghetti in salted water until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. This step is crucial because you want the pasta to have a little bite to hold onto the flavorful sauce instead of getting mushy.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter and Olive Oil
While the pasta cooks, warm the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until it releases its intoxicating aroma, about one minute—make sure not to burn it to keep the flavor bright and fresh.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add your shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook them on each side until they turn an inviting pink—about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This results in tender, juicy shrimp that soak up the garlicky goodness. Remove the shrimp and keep them warm to keep the magic intact.
Step 4: Sauté Cherry Tomatoes
In the same skillet, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté just until they start to soften, about 2 minutes. Their natural juices add a lovely, slightly sweet acidity that balances the rich butter and shrimp perfectly.
Step 5: Add White Wine and Lemon Juice
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the flavors concentrate and meld, creating a delicate sauce that coats every ingredient.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Return the cooked spaghetti and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine and warm through, making sure every pasta strand is kissed with that luscious sauce.
Step 7: Stir in Fresh Parsley and Parmesan
Finally, stir in the fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. These finishing touches add freshness and a cheesy, savory depth that makes the dish truly irresistible.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
Dish up the pasta hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley for that beautiful, tempting look that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
How to Serve Fast Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a few more shavings of Parmesan cheese elevate this dish visually and in flavor, delivering fresh and creamy notes with every bite. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil also adds a silky finish.
Side Dishes
This Fast Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delicious garlic sauce. Steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also make fresh, healthy complements.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual bowls with a lemon wedge on the side, inviting guests to add a touch of brightness. You can also plate it atop sautéed spinach for a pop of color or wrap portions in fresh basil leaves for a vibrant appetizer style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp and pasta might absorb more of the sauce, so be sure to stir well before reheating.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, freeze your cooked pasta and shrimp separately in freezer-safe bags for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave to keep the shrimp tender and prevent the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking; this helps them sear nicely and prevents excess moisture in your dish.
What type of white wine works best?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the garlicky shrimp and adds a subtle acidity that enhances all the flavors.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and the rest of the ingredients remain the same with no compromise on taste.
How spicy is the recipe?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your liking. Omit them entirely for a mild version or add more if you love a spicy kick.
Is it okay to substitute lemon juice with lemon zest?
You can add lemon zest for a fragrant lemon zing, but lemon juice is essential for the tangy brightness and acidity that balances the rich butter and shrimp flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Fast Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of my ultimate go-to meals because it strikes the perfect balance between effortless cooking and gourmet flavor. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every garlicky, buttery, tangy bite that makes dinner so memorable and satisfying.
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Fast Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Traditional American
Description
This Fast Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a quick and flavorful dinner option combining succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a splash of white wine. Tossed with spaghetti and finished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, it’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight meals.
Ingredients
For 4 Servings
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add Wine and Lemon: Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
- Toss Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked spaghetti and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine and heat through evenly.
- Finish with Parsley and Cheese: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to coat the pasta and shrimp with flavor.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired for an elegant touch.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute white wine with chicken broth if preferred.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spiciness.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it seems dry.
- For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream along with the wine.
