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; 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Kitchen

Quick, delicious, and satisfying, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a gourmet meal without the fuss.

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:28:38.798Z

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of succulent shrimp with garlic and a hint of lemon, all tossed with al dente pasta. Perfect for those evenings when you want something quick yet impressive!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Packed with flavor from garlic and fresh herbs
A satisfying meal that feels indulgent without the long cook time

A Quick Gourmet Delight

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a gourmet meal can feel daunting. This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta simplifies that process without sacrificing flavor or quality. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant meals. It's perfect for those evenings when you're short on time but still want to treat yourself to something special.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With the rich flavors of garlic and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, this pasta dish is as satisfying as it is quick. The shrimp cooks in mere minutes, making it an ideal choice for a last-minute dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Garlic is the star of this dish, providing a robust flavor that complements the sweetness of the shrimp beautifully. When sautéed, garlic releases its essential oils, creating an aromatic base that enhances the entire meal. Combined with a splash of lemon juice, this dish strikes a perfect balance between savory and tangy, making each bite a delightful experience.

Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a hint of freshness that rounds out the flavors. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor, or swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu if you prefer.

Ideal for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special date night, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the ideal meal. Its quick preparation time makes it a go-to recipe for families and individuals alike. Plus, the elegant presentation and delightful taste make it a fantastic option for entertaining guests without the stress of a lengthy cooking process.

Pair this dish with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine to elevate your dining experience. The harmony of flavors in this dish makes it suitable for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Garlic Shrimp Pasta:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti
300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to prep your ingredients ahead of time to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Garlic Shrimp Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with the lemon juice. Toss everything together until well combined. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Garlic Shrimp Pasta!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Shrimp Pasta

To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, keep an eye on their color. They should turn pink and opaque, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so it’s best to remove them from the heat as soon as they are done.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This step adds depth to the dish and enhances the overall taste.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Garlic Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, the flavors will continue to meld in the refrigerator, creating a delicious leftover meal. Just be cautious not to overheat, as shrimp can lose their delicate texture if reheated too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Garlic Shrimp Pasta with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the dish beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.

For those who love a bit of crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. These additions can elevate the dish and make it even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What type of pasta can I use?

You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice, such as linguine or fettuccine.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp while cooking.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead and cook the pasta just before serving.