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; Salt, for boiling water; 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Inspiration

Quick and flavorful, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the ideal weeknight dinner.

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:22:34.361Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and al dente pasta makes it a fantastic dish for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Succulent shrimp infused with garlic and herbs
A satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're pressed for time but still want a delicious meal, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your go-to solution. It's quick enough to whip up after a long day at work, yet packed with flavor that rivals any restaurant dish. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

This dish is not only fast but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a great base recipe to experiment with. Whether you prefer a little more heat or a touch of lemon zest, this pasta is a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Health Benefits of Shrimp

Shrimp is not just delicious; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in high-quality protein, shrimp provides essential amino acids while being low in calories. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste.

Additionally, shrimp is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health. Paired with the antioxidants found in garlic, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also contributes to your overall well-being. It's a win-win for both flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, be careful not to overdo it. Shrimp cook quickly, and when they turn pink and opaque, they are done. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, which is best avoided for the best dining experience.

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for about 15 minutes before cooking. This extra step can elevate the dish significantly, providing layers of taste that complement the pasta beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti
Salt, for boiling water

For the Shrimp

300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.

Instructions

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 Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious garlic shrimp pasta!

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A fresh garden salad can add a crisp contrast to the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread provides a comforting touch that everyone enjoys.

For those looking to add a little more nutrition, consider tossing in some steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach. This not only enhances the meal's visual appeal but also boosts its health benefits, making it a well-rounded dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta moist.

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, reheated shrimp pasta can still be quite tasty. Just be careful not to overheat, as shrimp can become tough if cooked too long. Enjoy your leftovers as a quick lunch or dinner option!

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes, such as fettuccine or penne, to give the dish a new twist. You can also swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option that works just as well with the garlic and herb flavors.

For a Mediterranean flair, add sun-dried tomatoes and olives. Alternatively, a splash of white wine while sautéing the shrimp can add a lovely depth of flavor, making this dish even more delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any pasta of your choice, such as linguine or penne.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.