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 or linguine; Salt, for boiling water; 250g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of half a lemon

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This quick and easy 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party. With succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and tossed with al dente pasta, it's a dish full of flavor and simplicity.

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:46:34.649Z

This recipe was inspired by my love for quick meals that don't compromise on taste. The combination of garlic and shrimp is a classic, and when paired with pasta, it becomes an irresistible dish that anyone can whip up in no time.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and effortless preparation in just 15 minutes
Bursting with fresh garlic flavor and juicy shrimp
Perfectly satisfying for a weeknight dinner or special occasion

      

A Quick Dinner Solution

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a delicious meal can be challenging. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta offers an ideal solution, allowing you to whip up a flavorful dish in no time. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner without the hassle. Perfect for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

The ease of this recipe makes it a go-to for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. You’ll be amazed at how quickly the shrimp cooks, and the garlic infuses the dish with a delightful aroma. This pasta dish is not only quick to make but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices.

Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the shrimp, which absorbs the rich flavors of garlic and olive oil. Choosing fresh, high-quality shrimp will elevate this recipe even further. Look for shrimp that are firm and slightly translucent; this indicates freshness. If you're in a pinch, frozen shrimp can also work well—just ensure they are thoroughly thawed before cooking.

Garlic plays a vital role in the flavor profile of this dish. Freshly minced garlic adds a depth of flavor that dried garlic simply can't match. When sautéed, garlic becomes aromatic and slightly sweet, creating a delightful base for the shrimp. Coupled with a squeeze of lemon juice, the dish achieves a perfect balance of richness and brightness.

Customizing Your Pasta

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Simply sauté them alongside the garlic before adding the shrimp for a one-pan meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options, to suit your dietary needs.

For those who enjoy a little heat, adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes can give your pasta an extra kick. Alternatively, consider garnishing your dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for added texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti or linguine
Salt, for boiling water

For the Garlic Shrimp

250g shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of half a lemon

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your preference!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to create a sauce. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley before serving.

Serve immediately with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic.

Serving Suggestions

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a fantastic standalone dish, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the pasta. A side of garlic bread can also be a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

For a complete dining experience, you might want to pair this dish with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the shrimp and garlic, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you're in luck! This pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to avoid drying out the dish. Microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through for the best results.

Keep in mind, though, that while the dish can be reheated, the shrimp may not retain their original texture. For the freshest taste, it's best enjoyed right after cooking. However, if you do have leftovers, they make for a quick and tasty lunch the next day.

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 use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat options.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and pasta ahead of time, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers would be great additions.