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; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Easy Ideas

A quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:53:34.436Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not only quick to make but also packed with flavor. Perfect for those who love a simple yet satisfying dinner!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for busy evenings
Flavorful garlic and shrimp combination
Perfectly al dente pasta every time

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

When life gets hectic, finding the time to cook a wholesome meal can feel like a daunting task. That's where this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta comes to the rescue! With its quick preparation time and minimal ingredients, it's an ideal dish for those bustling weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

This recipe is not just about speed; it’s also about simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time. The ease of preparation means you can focus on enjoying your meal and spending quality time with loved ones, rather than stressing over complicated cooking processes.

Flavors That Shine

The combination of garlic and shrimp creates a flavor profile that is both aromatic and savory. The garlic infuses the olive oil with its rich essence, while the shrimp adds a sweet, briny taste that pairs perfectly with the al dente pasta. A hint of red pepper flakes elevates the dish, providing just the right amount of heat without overpowering the other flavors.

Adding a splash of lemon juice not only brightens the dish but also enhances the overall flavor, making each bite refreshing. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a subtle earthiness, rounding out the dish beautifully. This garlic shrimp pasta is a delightful way to showcase the natural flavors of its ingredients, ensuring every forkful is a taste sensation.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this garlic shrimp pasta recipe is its versatility. While shrimp is the star of this dish, you can easily swap it out for other proteins such as chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. This adaptability means you can cater to various dietary preferences while still enjoying a quick and tasty meal.

Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients, too! You can toss in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness, spinach for a nutritious touch, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness. This recipe serves as a base that you can personalize to fit your taste, making it a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before starting to cook!

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 olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Toss the cooked spaghetti with the shrimp mixture. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing your garlic shrimp pasta is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to keep it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp pasta. However, keep in mind that the texture of the shrimp might change upon thawing. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well-sealed. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

This garlic shrimp pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors of the pasta without overshadowing them. Additionally, a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, will enhance your dining experience.

For a heartier meal, consider serving crusty garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic-infused oil from the shrimp pasta. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, these pairing suggestions will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Nutritional Benefits

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not just quick and flavorful; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein and is low in calories, making it a healthy choice for those watching their intake. It’s rich in essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine, contributing to overall health and well-being.

The inclusion of garlic provides numerous health benefits as well, known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Olive oil adds healthy fats to the dish, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. With fresh parsley and lemon juice, you’re also getting a dose of vitamins and antioxidants, making this recipe a delicious way to nourish your body.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ What type of pasta can I use?

You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or linguine.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili peppers.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

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