Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garlic shrimp pasta recipe has always been one of my go-to comfort dishes—simple, satisfying, and full of Mediterranean charm. Growing up in Greece, I learned to appreciate how a few fresh ingredients can create something truly special. Now, living in the USA, I still lean on this dish when I want a cozy, flavor-packed meal that feels effortless.
The juicy shrimp, sautéed with golden garlic, pair beautifully with pasta and a touch of lemon. It’s a pescatarian-friendly classic that comes together quickly and never fails to impress. Whether I’m cooking for my family or a few friends, this garlic shrimp pasta recipe always hits the spot.
Table Of Contents
Why You Will Love This Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
What Makes This Dish So Satisfying
- Juicy shrimp and garlic-infused oil coat every bite of pasta.
- Simple ingredients deliver bold, comforting Mediterranean flavor.
- Naturally pescatarian, high in protein, and full of good fats.
- Quick to make—perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
Why It’s a Favorite in My Kitchen
- Easy to customize with your favorite pasta or herbs.
- Feels indulgent but uses clean, nourishing ingredients.
- Pairs beautifully with salads or grilled vegetables.
- Always a hit when I need something fast and satisfying.
Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
Choose whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred. - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Fresh or thawed, tails on or off. - 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
Use fresh garlic for bold, aromatic flavor. - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Cold-pressed adds the best richness and depth. - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Gives the sauce a velvety finish. - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Adds a gentle heat—adjust to your taste. - Juice of 1/2 lemon
Brightens and balances the garlic and butter. - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Essential to round out all the flavors. - 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Fresh parsley adds color and freshness at the end. - Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
Omit for dairy-free or keep it for a creamy finish.
How to Choose the Best Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Fresh, Simple Ingredients Make It Shine
- Use wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Thaw frozen shrimp overnight and pat them dry before cooking. - Pick fresh garlic with tight skin—avoid pre-minced jars.
Fresh garlic brings bold, aromatic flavor that makes this dish special. - Choose extra virgin olive oil that’s fruity and smooth.
Butter adds richness—unsalted lets you control the salt level. - Lemons should feel heavy and juicy for bright, fresh juice.
Use fresh parsley for a vibrant, clean finish.
Smart Swaps and Tips
- Use gluten-free or chickpea pasta for dietary needs.
- Add spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for more nutrients.
- Skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version—it’s still flavorful.
- A splash of white wine in the sauce adds depth.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté garlic in olive oil and butter over medium heat until golden and fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Squeeze in lemon juice and toss in the cooked pasta.
- Stir everything together until the pasta is coated in the garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and optional Parmesan before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
How I Love to Serve It
- Serve warm with a simple green salad and lemon wedges.
- Top with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan for richness.
- Add a glass of crisp white wine for a light, elegant meal.
- Tuck in crusty bread to soak up any extra garlic butter sauce.
Perfect for Sharing
- Ideal for a cozy dinner or easy entertaining.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a chilled cucumber salad.
- Serve in shallow bowls for a beautiful presentation.
- Makes a satisfying pescatarian main without feeling heavy.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Common Prep Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should be just pink and firm.
- Avoid burning the garlic—it turns bitter quickly, so sauté gently.
- Don’t forget to salt the pasta water—it’s your first layer of flavor.
- Avoid tossing dry pasta—reserve a little cooking water for the sauce.
Flavor and Texture Mistakes
- Don’t skip the lemon—it adds balance and brightness to the dish.
- Avoid using low-quality oil—it’s the base of your flavor.
- Don’t overload with cheese—it can overpower the garlic and shrimp.
- Avoid skipping fresh herbs—they add color and a clean finish.
How to Store Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Refrigerating Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Avoid microwaving too long—shrimp can turn rubbery.
Freezing Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Freezing isn’t ideal due to the texture of shrimp and pasta.
- If needed, freeze cooled pasta and shrimp separately in airtight bags.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Health Benefits of Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Garlic shrimp pasta recipe provides lean protein from shrimp to support muscle health.
- Garlic supports immune health and adds powerful anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats and helps absorb nutrients.
- Lemon juice aids digestion and adds a vitamin C boost.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options increase fiber and lower glycemic impact.
- This garlic shrimp pasta recipe is naturally pescatarian and easy to adapt for dairy-free diets.
Seafood Pasta Lovers, Don’t Miss These
Bonefish Salmon Recipe – Rich, glazed salmon with a citrusy edge.
Spicy Crab Salad Recipe – Light and spicy crab with a fresh crunch.
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe – Perfectly seared shrimp with garlic butter.
Florida Lobster Recipe – Buttery lobster that melts in your mouth.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 6 cloves garlic finely minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan optional, for serving
Instructions
- Boil linguine or spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Squeeze in lemon juice.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until well coated with the garlic shrimp sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and optional Parmesan. Serve warm.
Notes
A Pasta Dish That’s Comforting, Bright, and Always Satisfying
What I love about this garlic shrimp pasta recipe is how effortlessly it comes together—simple, fresh, and full of flavor. The shrimp are juicy, the garlic rich, and every bite feels like comfort food done the Mediterranean way. Whether you’re eating pescatarian or just craving a quick, nourishing dish, this recipe always delivers. It’s light yet filling, elegant yet easy, and always a favorite in my kitchen.
FAQs
1. What pasta goes well with garlic butter shrimp?
Linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair work best—they hold the garlic butter well without overpowering the shrimp.
Choose whole wheat or gluten-free options if preferred.
2. Do you cook shrimp before adding to pasta?
No, you cook the shrimp in the sauce and then toss it with the pasta.
This method keeps the shrimp tender and full of flavor.
3. What not to mix shrimp with?
Avoid heavy dairy sauces or overly sweet flavors—they can mask the delicate shrimp taste.
Also steer clear of over-salting since shrimp naturally carry some salt.
4. What is a good side to eat with shrimp?
A crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens pair beautifully with shrimp.
Grilled asparagus or zucchini are great options too.
5. What does adding butter to spaghetti sauce do?
Butter adds richness, smooth texture, and helps balance acidity in sauces.
It’s especially perfect in garlic shrimp pasta for a velvety finish.
6. What goes well with lemon garlic shrimp?
Light sides like jasmine rice, quinoa, or roasted veggies work well.
You can also serve it over pasta or with crusty bread for dipping.
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