Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta
What Started it all:
Butter
This delightful Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and easy dish that brings together the rich flavors of butter and garlic, perfectly complementing the succulent shrimp. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe serves four and can be prepared in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among four plates and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta!
This Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the versatility of butter. It's perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. Bon appétit!