15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti or linguine; Salt (for boiling water); 300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Instant Cooking

This quick and easy 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. With succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and tossed with al dente pasta, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:17:33.739Z

Perfect for a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta brings together the flavors of garlic, shrimp, and fresh herbs. It’s a dish that impresses without consuming your entire evening in the kitchen.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make in just 15 minutes
Garlic and shrimp create an irresistible aroma
Light yet satisfying for any meal occasion

      

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

When life gets busy, finding time to cook a wholesome meal can feel overwhelming. That's where this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta comes in. It’s designed for those hectic evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes as if it came straight from a fine dining restaurant.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The preparation and cooking process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a delightful meal in just 15 minutes. This means you can spend more time with your loved ones or relaxing after a long day at work, rather than worrying about what to cook.

A Flavorful Combination

This dish features the perfect pairing of garlic and shrimp, which creates an irresistible aroma that will fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort. The garlic is sautéed until fragrant, infusing the olive oil with its rich flavor, while the shrimp cooks quickly, becoming tender and juicy. Together, they create a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist.

Adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the olive oil and garlic. The fresh parsley not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a burst of freshness, making each bite a delightful experience. This recipe truly captures the essence of a homemade meal with gourmet flair.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of this Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is its versatility. While the recipe calls for shrimp, you can easily substitute it with your favorite seafood, such as scallops or even chicken for a heartier option. Additionally, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to increase the nutritional value and add more color to your plate.

This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or even preparing a romantic dinner, this pasta will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g spaghetti or linguine
Salt (for boiling water)

For the Garlic Shrimp

300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting to cook for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque (about 3-4 minutes).

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and parsley. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your meal with a sprinkle of extra parsley on top for garnish!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach during the sautéing process.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy! Place the cooled pasta and shrimp in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking.

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, reheating will still yield a delicious meal. However, be cautious not to overcook the shrimp when reheating, as they can become tough. For an even quicker option, consider microwaving it in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Garlic Shrimp Pasta experience, consider serving it with a side of crusty garlic bread. This not only complements the flavors of the pasta but also provides an excellent way to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Pairing the dish with a light salad, such as a simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, makes for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. For beverage options, a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling water can enhance the dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti and linguine are great options, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers would be fantastic additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.