This Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a perfect solution for a quick dinner! With tender shrimp and a punch of garlic heat, this dish comes together in no time.
It’s so easy to prepare, you’ll feel like a chef! I love whipping this up when I need something tasty in a hurry—plus, who doesn’t love pasta? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I suggest using spaghetti or linguine for this dish, but fettuccine or penne can work too. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free pasta option available at most stores!
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp gives a great flavor and texture. If they’re not available, use frozen shrimp—just be sure to thaw them properly. You can also substitute shrimp with chicken or vegetables if you prefer vegetarian options.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential here. If you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic works too, but remember it has a slightly different flavor. Garlic powder is not a perfect substitute but can be used in a pinch.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference! If you don’t have red pepper flakes, you could use a dash of hot sauce or fresh chili peppers to add some heat. For a milder option, simply skip it.
White Wine: This adds great depth to the sauce, but if you don’t cook with wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute! For a non-alcoholic version, use vegetable broth.
How Do I Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic for this recipe can be tricky since it burns easily. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Always sauté garlic over medium heat and keep a close eye on it.
- Add it to the pan after the oil is hot but not smoking. A good test is to see if the oil ripples.
- Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly. If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat.
- Once it’s fragrant, you can add other ingredients right away so the garlic doesn’t sit too long.
This method will give you beautifully cooked garlic that enhances the overall flavor of your dish! Enjoy your pasta! 🍝
How to Make Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
For The Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For The Sauce:
- 4 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For The Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. In just under half an hour, you’ll have a quick and satisfying dinner on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine to the water and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and the red pepper flakes. Sauté everything for about 1 minute, or until you can smell the wonderful aroma, making sure not to let the garlic burn.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, increase the heat to medium-high and toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season them with a bit of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Make sure to scrape any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan while it simmers for extra flavor.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Stir in the lemon juice, then add the cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta is coated in the sauce. If it seems a bit dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Finish and Serve:
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the pasta. Toss everything together gently until it’s heated through. Finally, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle some chopped parsley over the dish.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta immediately, topping with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy this delightful dinner with a loved one or treat yourself!
Bon Appétit! 🍝
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before using them. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging the bag in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, chicken broth is a great alternative! You can also use vegetable broth or simply omit it and add a little extra lemon juice for brightness.
How to Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can easily make this pasta vegetarian by substituting shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. Use vegetable broth in place of white wine as well.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce.
