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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 250g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

Quick and delicious, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta brings together succulent shrimp, garlic, and a hint of lemon for a delightful meal.

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:31:34.347Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of garlic and shrimp creates a flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation that fits into any busy schedule
Rich garlic flavor with a touch of lemon
Perfectly cooked shrimp that are tender and juicy

A Flavorful Fusion

Garlic shrimp pasta is not just a meal; it's an experience. The combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Each bite offers a delightful burst of taste, making it an ideal choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. This dish perfectly balances the richness of garlic with the freshness of seafood, ensuring that your taste buds are tantalized.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up an impressive dish that looks and tastes gourmet. The vibrant colors of the shrimp and parsley against the backdrop of the spaghetti make for a visually appealing presentation that is sure to impress your guests. This dish is a true testament to the idea that you don't need complex recipes to create extraordinary meals.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a romantic meal for two, or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this garlic shrimp pasta fits the bill. It can be easily scaled up or down depending on your needs, making it versatile for any gathering. Plus, it cooks in mere minutes, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

This dish is also a fantastic option for those who are trying to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Packed with protein from the shrimp and wholesome carbohydrates from the pasta, it provides a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down. The addition of fresh herbs and citrus not only enhances the taste but adds nutritional value as well.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, always use fresh shrimp if possible. Fresh shrimp has a sweeter, more delicate flavor compared to frozen varieties. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish. This small step can make a big difference in the overall texture and taste of your pasta.

Don’t skimp on the garlic! The key to achieving that rich, aromatic flavor lies in the garlic. Sautéing it just until fragrant will infuse the olive oil with its essence, which then coats the shrimp and pasta beautifully. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. This dish can be as mild or as spicy as you like.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
250g shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Combine the ingredients to prepare a delicious meal!

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.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and red pepper flakes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the lemon juice and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your quick and flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine while cooking the shrimp.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the texture of the pasta and shrimp, it's best to reheat the dish gently. Use a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help revive the pasta's original consistency.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, reheating can still yield a tasty result. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the pasta mushy. Instead, gently toss everything together on the stovetop, allowing the flavors to meld once more.

Pairing Suggestions

This garlic shrimp pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables, adding a fresh component to your meal. A light vinaigrette can enhance the overall dining experience without overpowering the delicate flavors of the pasta.

For those looking to elevate their meal further, consider serving it with a glass of white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity in the wine complements the lemony notes of the dish, creating a harmonious pairing that is sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any pasta of your choice, such as penne or fettuccine.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead and cook them just before serving.