15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Highlighted under: Instant Food

Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner.

Una Whitcombe

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:07:34.557Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and shrimp with al dente pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, it is quick to prepare yet impressive enough for guests!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
  • Garlic adds a delightful aroma and flavor
  • Shrimp is a great source of protein and pairs perfectly with pasta

A Quick Dinner Solution

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a delicious meal can be a challenge. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta offers a perfect solution for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table in no time. This recipe proves that quick meals don't have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition.

Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this pasta dish is sure to impress. The vibrant flavors of garlic and shrimp, combined with the freshness of parsley and lemon, create a delightful dining experience. Plus, the ease of preparation means you'll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Healthy and Wholesome Ingredients

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Shrimp is a fantastic source of lean protein, making it a great choice for a healthy diet. Its mild flavor allows it to absorb the aromatic garlic and zesty lemon, resulting in a deliciously satisfying dish.

The addition of fresh parsley not only enhances the flavor but also provides a boost of vitamins and minerals. Olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean cooking, is rich in healthy fats and adds a wonderful depth to the dish. By using these fresh ingredients, you can enjoy a meal that is both nourishing and flavorful.

Customizing Your Pasta Dish

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the classic garlic shrimp combination is delicious, you can easily customize the dish to suit your tastes. Consider adding seasonal vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to introduce extra color and nutrition. Simply sauté them along with the garlic for a delightful twist.

You can also adjust the level of spice by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes. Want a creamier texture? A splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish further. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Enjoy your delicious garlic shrimp pasta!

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with the lemon juice and parsley. Toss to combine and serve immediately.

Enjoy your meal!

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Pro Tips

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

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from this delicious Garlic Shrimp Pasta, storing them correctly is key to maintaining freshness. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking.

While the shrimp can be reheated, it's best to consume them fresh for optimal texture. If you're planning to have leftovers, consider cooking only the amount you need and saving the shrimp to add fresh when you're ready to eat.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your Garlic Shrimp Pasta, consider serving a light side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

For beverages, a chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, would enhance the dish wonderfully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon or a light herbal tea can also provide a refreshing accompaniment.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What kind of pasta can I use?

You can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner.

Prep Time5 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Una Whitcombe

Recipe Type: Instant Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pasta

  1. 8 oz spaghetti
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  7. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  8. Juice of 1 lemon

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 03

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque.

Step 04

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with the lemon juice and parsley. Toss to combine and serve immediately.

Extra Tips

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

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 25g