Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss

Name: Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love the combination of shrimp and garlic, and this Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss is one of my favorite quick dinners. The way the shrimp absorbs the flavors of garlic and olive oil creates a delightful dish that is satisfying yet light. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients, I can craft a meal that feels indulgent but is actually quite simple to prepare.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:34:27.182Z

I still remember the first time I made this Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss. The aroma of sautéed garlic filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I decided to experiment with a light pasta dish that showcased fresh ingredients, and it turned out to be a hit. My family loved how the shrimp were perfectly cooked and infused with flavor, blending beautifully with the delicate pasta.

One crucial tip I learned along the way is to never overcook the shrimp. They only need a few minutes to turn pink and opaque, ensuring they stay tender and juicy. This dish not only tastes amazing but also comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal option for any night of the week.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp paired with aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering experience.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Light yet satisfying, it's great for seafood lovers.

The Perfect Pasta Choice

When preparing this Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss, the choice of pasta plays a crucial role in achieving the right texture. Spaghetti is ideal for this dish as its long strands can easily hold onto the sauce and shrimp. If you're in the mood for something different, consider linguine or fettuccine, both of which provide a delightful chewiness that pairs wonderfully with the succulent shrimp and garlic infusion.

Cooking the spaghetti until al dente is essential; this means it should be firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and fail to hold sauces effectively. To achieve the perfect al dente texture, start checking the pasta a minute or two before the package's suggested cooking time. Remember to save some of that starchy pasta water before draining, as it’s a secret weapon for creating a glossy, cohesive sauce.

Enhancing Flavors with Technique

The technique of sautéing garlic in olive oil is vital for building flavor in this recipe. It’s important to monitor the garlic closely; it should become fragrant and slightly golden but not browned, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish. Cooking it over medium heat for about 30 seconds is usually sufficient, but if you’re unsure, watch for that golden hue to ensure you’re on track.

Adding the shrimp to the skillet after the garlic is fragrant allows them to soak up the rich flavors of the oil. Make sure to spread the shrimp out in a single layer; overcrowding the pan can cause them to steam rather than sear. This searing is what gives the shrimp a delightful, slightly crispy texture on the outside while keeping them juicy inside. You’ll know they’re ready when they change color from grey to pink, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious pasta dish.

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for a seamless experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with shrimp. Toss to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and adjust seasoning if needed.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your meal fresh from the stove!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some cherry tomatoes or spinach for color and flavor. Make sure the shrimp are not overcooked to maintain their tenderness.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, making it great for lunch the next day. However, be cautious of overcooking the shrimp when reheating, as they can become rubbery. Gently heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. However, it's best to freeze the pasta and shrimp separately, as pasta can become overly soft when thawed. If you opt to freeze, ensure everything cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet, adding a little water or broth to recreate that desirable sauce.

Variations and Customizations

This Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss is quite versatile. If you're looking for a twist, try adding seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, sautéing them alongside the garlic for added color and nutrition. Alternatively, you can substitute the shrimp with chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the shrimp. Let it reduce slightly before tossing in the pasta; this adds a delightful depth and acidity that brightens the overall dish. If you're a fan of creamier pastas, a dollop of mascarpone or a splash of heavy cream stirred in at the end can create a luxurious sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What kind of pasta can I use?

While spaghetti is ideal, you can substitute with any pasta shape you enjoy, such as linguine or fettuccine.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook just before serving.

→ How can I make it more flavorful?

Feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano, or toss in some capers for added zing!