Description
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti Delight, a dish that’s as perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner as it is for special occasions. This recipe combines tender shrimp and al dente spaghetti with a rich, garlic-infused sauce. Seasoned to perfection with Italian herbs and a hint of spice, it’s a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles
- 6–8 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- Olive oil (about 3 drizzles)
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- Fresh ground pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add olive oil and fresh herbs to infuse the spaghetti with flavors as it cooks. Cook the spaghetti until tender, usually about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and set aside. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure optimal cooking.
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, preparing it for cooking the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the melted butter in the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and start to curl, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the garlic to mellow and flavor the shrimp.
- Add Olive Oil: Drizzle a bit of olive oil into the skillet. This helps to enhance the flavor and coats the pasta effectively.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp. Incorporate seasonings such as Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to combine.
- Incorporate Pasta Water: Gradually add the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Start with a 1/4 cup and add more if necessary, allowing the dish to become more cohesive.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss all ingredients together in the skillet until everything is well mixed and heated through. Make any final seasoning adjustments needed.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes