15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti; Salt, to taste; 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Ideas

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the ocean to your table in no time.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:29:34.440Z

This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a quick meal when you're short on time. The garlic and shrimp create a delightful combination that will impress anyone at your table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Rich garlic flavor paired with tender shrimp
Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests

      

A Quick and Delicious Dinner Option

When you're short on time but still want a satisfying meal, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect solution. It's not just quick to prepare; it's also packed with flavor that will impress your family or guests. With only a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without the hassle of a long cooking process.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The garlic-infused olive oil complements the shrimp beautifully, creating a rich sauce that clings to the spaghetti. In just 15 minutes, you can have a gourmet meal on the table, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected visitors.

Perfect Pairings for Your Pasta

To enhance the flavors of your Garlic Shrimp Pasta, consider pairing it with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. Additionally, a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the dish perfectly, enhancing the dining experience.

For those looking to add a touch of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish, giving it a spicy kick. You can also serve it with crusty garlic bread for a complete meal that satisfies all your cravings.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp

To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cooking them in batches if necessary will help achieve that perfect sear and prevent them from steaming. Remember that shrimp cook quickly; once they turn pink and opaque, they are done. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep a close eye on them.

Using fresh ingredients is key to maximizing flavor. Fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil can make a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish. If you have access to fresh herbs, such as basil or dill, feel free to experiment by adding them to your pasta for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
Salt, to taste

For the Garlic Shrimp

200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking to save time.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Stir in the cooked spaghetti and lemon juice, tossing everything together to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious and quick garlic shrimp pasta!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating it on the stove with a splash of water or broth can help revive its texture. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can overcook the shrimp and make the pasta mushy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp separately from the pasta. Cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy the dish later, simply thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a creamy version, add a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese to the pasta before serving. This will create a rich, velvety sauce that enhances the shrimp and garlic flavors.

You can also experiment with different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, or even substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different take on the dish. Adding seasonal vegetables, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, can also boost the nutritional value and add color to your plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What other types of pasta can I use?

You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta you prefer, like linguine or fettuccine.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and garlic mixture in advance and store it in the fridge.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole grain pasta and add more vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.