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GARLIC SHRIMP PASTA

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Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A Flavorful and Easy Weeknight Meal

GARLIC SHRIMP PASTA

Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that comes together quickly? Look no further than this Garlic Shrimp Pasta. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors, with tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic sauce. It's a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this flavorful pasta on your table in no time. Let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed
  • 1 lb spaghetti noodles (adjust based on family size)
  • 6-8 garlic cloves, minced (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • Olive oil (for drizzling)
  • Italian seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
  • Salt
  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil, for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, wash the shrimp thoroughly.

Cooking the Shrimp and Creating the Sauce

  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until it turns pink and starts to curl, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the cooked shrimp. Toss to combine.
  4. Gradually add the reserved pasta water to the skillet, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
  5. Season with Italian seasoning, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt to taste. Toss to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly in the sauce.
  6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pasta

  • Shrimp Quality: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw it completely before cooking.
  • Garlic Love: Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. For a milder flavor, use fewer cloves.
  • Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps to create a creamy sauce. Don't be afraid to use it!
  • Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavor of your pasta by adding other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or feta cheese.
  • Leftovers: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or pasta water to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your weeknight rotation. Enjoy!

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