Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Shrimp

3. Season Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
4. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Making the Garlic Sauce

6. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
7. Add Wine/Broth: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
8. Incorporate Lemon: Stir in lemon juice and zest, and season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 4: Combining Everything

9. Return Shrimp to Skillet: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
10. Add Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, using tongs to toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
11. Finish with Butter (optional): Stir in butter for extra richness, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

12. Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta and toss again.
13. Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
14. Enjoy: Serve immediately, with a lemon wedge on the side for an extra citrusy kick.

Step 6: Storing Leftovers

15. Storage: Store any leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Choose Quality Shrimp

Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp works well too; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. The larger the shrimp, the more succulent the dish will be.

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their natural sweetness. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque.

Balance the Flavors

The balance of garlic, lemon, and herbs is key to this dish. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, and remember that fresh herbs and citrus can brighten the overall flavor profile.

Use Reserved Pasta Water

Pasta water contains starch that helps emulsify the sauce, allowing it to cling to the pasta beautifully. Gradually add the reserved water to achieve the perfect consistency.

Experiment with Herbs

While parsley is classic, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as basil, oregano, or even dill for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions

Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are some pairing ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Wine Pairings:

• Chardonnay: A rich, buttery white wine that complements the garlic and shrimp beautifully.
• Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and refreshing, it enhances the lemony notes of the dish.
• Pinot Grigio: Light and zesty, it pairs well with the seafood and pasta.

Side Dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Caesar Salad: A classic salad that balances the richness of the pasta with crisp, tangy flavors.
• Steamed Asparagus: Light and healthy, asparagus pairs well with shrimp and adds a pop of color.