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### **How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta**
Making **Garlic Shrimp Pasta** is a breeze, and the result is a beautiful, flavorful dish that will impress anyone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this easy recipe:
#### **1. Cook the Pasta**
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your **spaghetti** (or any pasta you prefer), and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water (in case you need it for the sauce) and then drain the pasta.
#### **2. Cook the Shrimp**
While the pasta is cooking, heat **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the **shrimp** in a single layer and season with **salt** and **pepper**. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side, until they are fully cooked and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
#### **3. Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes**
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of **olive oil** if needed. Add the **minced garlic** and **red pepper flakes** (if using) and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
#### **4. Make the Sauce**
Next, pour in the **white wine** (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits of shrimp or garlic stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine cook down for about 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Then, add the **chicken broth** and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the **lemon juice** and **lemon zest** for a fresh citrus kick. If you want a creamy finish, add the **heavy cream** and let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
#### **5. Combine the Pasta and Shrimp**
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. If the sauce seems a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved **pasta water** to loosen it up. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss everything together until the shrimp and pasta are well coated in the sauce.
#### **6. Garnish and Serve**
Once everything is combined, taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more **salt**, **pepper**, or **lemon juice** if needed. Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with fresh **parsley** and a generous sprinkle of **Parmesan cheese** (optional).
Serve immediately, and enjoy this irresistible combination of garlic, shrimp, and pasta!
### **Tips and Variations**
– **Use Tail-On Shrimp**: For a more dramatic presentation, consider using shrimp with tails on. They’re just as easy to peel and give the dish a more elegant look.
– **Spicy Kick**: If you love spice, feel free to add more **red pepper flakes** or even a dash of **cayenne pepper** to the garlic and oil.
– **Creamy Version**: For a richer, creamier sauce, you can add a little more heavy cream or even a dollop of **cream cheese**. This will give the sauce a velvety texture and extra richness.
– **Add Veggies**: Boost the nutritional value and flavor of the dish by adding **spinach**, **cherry tomatoes**, or **asparagus** to the skillet. Sauté them with the garlic and red pepper flakes for a well-rounded meal.
– **Pasta Variations**: While spaghetti is a classic choice, this recipe works just as well with other types of pasta, such as **linguine**, **penne**, or **fettuccine**. Try a gluten-free or whole-wheat pasta for a healthier option.
### **Why Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a Must-Try**
This **Garlic Shrimp Pasta** is the ultimate comfort food with a twist of elegance. The garlic and lemon sauce brings the shrimp to life, while the pasta serves as a perfect base to soak up all those incredible flavors. The dish is light enough for a weekday dinner but refined enough for a special occasion, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
Its **bold yet simple flavors**, **quick prep time**, and **elegant presentation** make it a crowd-pleaser that’s always sure to impress. Plus, with just a few pantry staples, it’s an affordable and accessible dish that delivers big on taste.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a tasty dinner to enjoy on a busy evening, **Garlic Shrimp Pasta** is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to time and time again. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite weeknight meal!
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