Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a delicious and quick dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
With its simple steps and quick preparation, you can whip up this flavorful dish in under 30 minutes. Start by cooking your pasta while you sauté garlic in butter and olive oil until fragrant. Additionally, it’s essential to reserve pasta water to create a creamier sauce and maintain moisture when combining the ingredients.
Then, toss in shrimp until they’re just cooked through. Combine everything in one skillet, using reserved pasta water to get the right consistency.
This dish is versatile too; feel free to add vegetables or adjust the spice level to your liking.
What ingredients do you need?
To create a mouthwatering garlic butter shrimp pasta, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a delightful dish.
Start with your choice of pasta varieties like spaghetti or fettuccine, and gather the essentials for shrimp preparation.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 9-12 ounces of pasta
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3-6 tablespoons butter
- 2-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Feel free to add additional flavors such as crushed red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and a splash of white wine or chicken broth for depth. Remember, cooking time totals approximately 25 minutes from start to finish, making this a quick and flavorful option for dinner.
Step by Step Instructions
Creating garlic butter shrimp pasta is a straightforward process that combines cooking pasta and sautéing shrimp in a deliciously aromatic sauce. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a delightful meal:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your chosen pasta variations.
- Cook the pasta until al dente, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil, then sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant.
- Add shrimp (or shrimp alternatives) to the skillet, cooking until just done, then set aside.
- Combine the pasta with the shrimp mixture, adding reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy sauce, and finish with lemon juice and parsley. This dish is known for its simplicity and quick preparation time, making it suitable for family dinners or special occasions.
Cooking Tips
When preparing garlic butter shrimp pasta, using the right techniques can elevate your dish. Start by avoiding browned garlic; cook it until fragrant over low heat to keep its flavor intact. Mince the garlic finely for even cooking.
For the shrimp, make sure they’re dry before cooking for the best texture. Cook them until pink and opaque, removing them from heat when they’re about 90% done to prevent rubberiness.
Reserve pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid helps create a creamy sauce without cream. If you need to substitute ingredients, lemon juice can brighten flavors, and herbs can add freshness.
Finally, finish with cold cubed butter for a glossy sauce, enhancing both taste and appearance.
Serving Suggestions
Serving garlic butter shrimp pasta becomes even more enjoyable with the right accompaniments. For garnish options, consider topping your dish with freshly grated parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or a burst of lemon zest to enhance the flavors.
Don’t forget the vibrant colors and nutrients that vegetable pairings can bring—blanched broccoli, sautéed zucchini, or tender asparagus make excellent additions to the pasta. You might also toss in some baby spinach just before serving for a fresh touch.
To round out your meal, serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad. These pairings not only elevate the dish but also create a well-balanced and satisfying dining experience.
Storing
To guarantee your garlic butter shrimp pasta remains fresh and flavorful, store it in an airtight container right after it cools.
You can keep it in refrigerator storage for up to three days, and in some cases, up to four days. To prevent drying out, consider adding a splash of reserved pasta water before sealing the container.
For longer preservation, you can use freezing techniques; just remember to cool the pasta to room temperature first. Store it in a freezer-safe bag, and it can last for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw and reheat gently, avoiding the microwave to prevent rubbery shrimp.
Health Benefits
Garlic butter shrimp pasta isn’t just a delicious meal; it also packs a variety of health benefits that can support your overall well-being.
One of the standout features is its protein benefits; with about 36 grams of protein per cup, it’s an excellent source that aids muscle health and repair. The relatively low calorie count helps with weight management, making it a smart choice for a balanced diet.
While it contains high cholesterol, shrimp can still contribute to heart health when enjoyed in moderation. The healthy fats from garlic butter and shrimp provide essential nutrients that support cardiovascular function.
Pair it with veggies for added fiber and vitamins, creating a well-rounded meal that’s both tasty and nutritious.
What to serve with it
Pairing garlic butter shrimp pasta with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. For a classic touch, garlic bread pairings like crusty Dutch oven bread or rosemary focaccia work beautifully, enhancing the dish’s rich flavors.
You can also experiment with grilled bread or ciabatta for added texture.
As for vegetable alternatives, consider serving a side of steamed broccoli, zucchini, or green beans to balance the meal.
Roasted vegetables, like parmesan roasted broccoli or roasted bell peppers, add a savory twist and vibrant color to your plate.
For a fresh crunch, a big green salad, Greek salad, or arugula salad can provide a revitalizing contrast.
These sides will perfectly complement your garlic butter shrimp pasta and create a well-rounded meal.
