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 4
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Rapid Inspiration

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. With succulent shrimp, garlic, and a hint of lemon, it's a dish everyone will love!

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:31:34.717Z

This dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and shrimp with al dente pasta, making it a satisfying option for a quick meal. Perfect for any occasion!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Packed with flavor from fresh garlic and shrimp
Versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables

A Quick and Satisfying Meal

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect solution for those hectic weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal for one, this pasta will leave you feeling fulfilled without spending hours in the kitchen.

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the shrimp. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of garlic and lemon beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, shrimp are a great source of protein, ensuring you're not only enjoying a tasty meal but also a nutritious one.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli can easily be added to enhance the nutritional value and add more color to your plate. Simply sauté the veggies along with the garlic before adding the shrimp for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Moreover, you can adjust the seasoning to suit your palate. If you prefer a little heat, adding red pepper flakes will bring an exciting kick to the dish. For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of pesto, transforming this simple recipe into a gourmet meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to ensure it doesn’t dry out. This makes it ideal for lunch at work or a quick dinner on another busy night.

Additionally, the bright flavors of this dish hold up well when reheated. The combination of garlic and lemon actually improves with time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This means you can savor the taste of your culinary creation even after the initial meal.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling 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 about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, along with the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious garlic shrimp pasta!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some cherry tomatoes to the skillet while cooking the shrimp.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Shrimp

Cooking shrimp can be intimidating for those new to it, but it’s simpler than you might think. The key is to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough and rubbery. As soon as the shrimp turn pink and opaque, they are done. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat immediately for the best texture.

A quick marinade can also enhance the flavor. Consider soaking the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for about 15 minutes before cooking. This not only infuses them with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, ensuring a juicy bite every time.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Garlic Shrimp Pasta experience, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread. This allows you to soak up the delicious garlic and lemon sauce, making every bite more enjoyable. A fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette also complements the dish perfectly, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.

For a finishing touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess that perfectly complements the shrimp and garlic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any pasta you prefer, such as linguine or penne.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic while sautéing.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Sauté some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the shrimp for added nutrition.