- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and reduce the heat to medium.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and add the butter to the skillet, stirring until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the garlic sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Garlic Shrimp Pasta hot, garnished with additional parsley, lemon wedges, and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can be used if thawed thoroughly before cooking.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- For added richness, consider incorporating a splash of cream into the garlic sauce.
Conclusion: Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender shrimp, a savory garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a great option for a quick dinner or an impressive meal for guests. With its balance of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the rich, garlicky goodness and the satisfaction of a well-crafted pasta meal!