Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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Introduction

Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a culinary favorite celebrated for its simplicity and satisfying flavor. This dish elegantly combines succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, making it a popular choice for both quick weeknight dinners and impressive weekend meals. Its global appeal stems from accessible ingredients and customizable nature, suiting various palates and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

The key ingredients for this recipe include:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well)
• 1/2 cup butter
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Red pepper flakes (to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Substitutions: Chicken or scallops can replace shrimp. Gluten-free pasta is a suitable alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Vegetable broth can substitute white wine.

Preparation Steps

Begin by prepping the shrimp. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Cook pasta according to package directions to al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later use. Prepping all ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Saut the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Deglaze (Optional): If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat. Add a little of the reserved pasta water at a time until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
6. Finish: Stir in the cooked shrimp, lemon juice, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve Immediately: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Optimal shrimp cooking time is crucial overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. The internal temperature should reach 145F (63C).

Serving Suggestions

Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe can be served as a main course, accompanied by a simple green salad or garlic bread. Consider serving it with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Garnishes like grated Parmesan cheese, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs elevate the dish. Plating on a warm plate helps maintain temperature and enhance the dining experience.

Tips and Common Mistakes

• Tip: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
• Tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp! It will become tough and rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
• Mistake: Burning the garlic. Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently.
• Mistake: Not salting the pasta water enough. This is your opportunity to season the pasta from the inside out.
• Tip: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
• Tip: Adding a knob of butter at the end can emulsify the sauce better.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning to make Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe offers a rewarding culinary experience that is both flavorful and convenient. Its adaptability allows home cooks to tailor the dish to their preferences, making it a timeless choice for any occasion. This recipe showcases the delightful synergy of simple ingredients, highlighting its cultural value and practicality. Embrace the ease and flavor of Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe and discover a new favorite in your cooking repertoire. Embark on this culinary journey today and explore more delicious and easy-to-follow cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com.