15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; Salt, for boiling water; 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; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Favorites

Quick, delicious, and packed with flavor, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:41:34.481Z

This quick and easy garlic shrimp pasta is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that brings the taste of the sea right to your table.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fast and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings.
Packed with fresh flavors that tantalize your taste buds.
A satisfying meal that feels gourmet without the fuss.

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can have a gourmet meal ready in a flash. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a satisfying dinner without the hassle.

Not only is it fast, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the shrimp for chicken or tofu. This makes it a fantastic option for families with varied tastes, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Flavorful Ingredients

The combination of garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs creates a flavor profile that is both rich and refreshing. Garlic provides a warm, aromatic base that complements the sweetness of the shrimp beautifully. Meanwhile, red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, elevating the dish without overwhelming your palate.

Using fresh parsley and lemon juice at the end brightens up the whole dish, giving it a zesty finish that’s perfect for spring and summer. These fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also add a vibrant color to your plate, making the meal visually appealing.

Quick Cooking Tips

To ensure your pasta cooks perfectly, remember to salt your boiling water generously. This is your chance to infuse flavor into the pasta itself. Also, make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque for the best texture. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them!

When combining the pasta and shrimp, use tongs to toss everything together gently. This technique helps to evenly distribute the sauce and ensures that every bite is filled with the savory goodness of garlic and lemon.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
Salt, for boiling water

For the Shrimp

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
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Mix and match the ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the 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 about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Combine

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, along with lemon juice and parsley. Toss to combine everything thoroughly.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Enjoy your meal with a side of garlic bread!

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can complement the dish's flavors without overpowering them. If you're looking to add some extra nutrition, consider tossing in some spinach or cherry tomatoes directly into the pasta during the last minute of cooking.

For a more indulgent experience, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. The creaminess of the cheese balances the acidity of the lemon perfectly, creating a luxurious finish.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store your Garlic Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep the dish moist, as pasta tends to absorb liquids when stored.

Microwave the pasta in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra olive oil or butter to restore its creamy texture.

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 shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp in advance and quickly reheat before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.