Savor the flavors of a delightful and satisfying meal with our Garlic Shrimp and Pasta recipe. This dish brings together succulent shrimp, al dente pasta, and aromatic garlic for a culinary experience that is both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or when you want to impress guests with a simple yet elegant meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.
**Garlic Shrimp and Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Shrimp:** Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. Drain the cooked pasta and set aside.
3. **Make the Garlic Sauce:** In the same skillet used to cook the shrimp, add the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
4. **Combine the Pasta and Shrimp:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat the pasta with the garlic-infused oil. If the pasta seems dry, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. **Add the Shrimp and Finish:** Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and chopped parsley into the pasta. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. For a hint of heat, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the Garlic Shrimp and Pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley on top. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a simple green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Embrace the harmony of flavors in this easy-to-follow Garlic Shrimp and Pasta recipe. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious taste. Elevate your dining experience with this elegant yet approachable recipe that captures the essence of a cozy home-cooked meal. Happy cooking and bon appétit!
