Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss

Name: Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love this Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss. It's a dish that brings together the savory flavors of succulent shrimp and aromatic garlic in a delightful pasta experience. We often enjoy this recipe after a long day, as it's quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, I can whip up a gourmet meal that feels special yet comforting. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:02:28.376Z

One of my favorite weeknight meals is this Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss. I love how quickly it comes together, allowing me to enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal fuss. Recently, I added a little lemon zest at the end, which really brightened the dish and complemented the garlic beautifully.

What truly makes this recipe stand out is the technique of sautéing the garlic just enough to release its flavors without burning it. I've learned that timing is everything—swiftly adding the shrimp once the garlic is fragrant ensures everything cooks perfectly without becoming rubbery.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp infused with aromatic garlic flavor
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy nights
A delightful balance of pasta and protein in every bite

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh shrimp is crucial for this dish to truly shine. Look for shrimp that is firm and has a slightly sweet smell, indicating freshness. If you can find wild-caught shrimp, it often provides a richer flavor compared to farmed varieties. Always ensure the shrimp is peeled and deveined for ease of cooking, as this saves you valuable time during preparation.

Garlic is another star ingredient in this pasta toss. Fresh garlic will impart an aromatic depth that pre-minced varieties cannot match. When sautéing garlic, be mindful not to burn it—cook just until fragrant. If garlic turns brown, it can taste bitter. I recommend keeping a close eye on it, as it can go from golden to burnt quickly.

Tips for Creating a Perfect Sauce

The reserved pasta water is a key element in creating a silky sauce. Start by adding just a little bit when you combine the pasta with the garlic and shrimp. This starchy water not only helps bind the ingredients together, it also enhances the sauce's consistency. You're aiming for a light coating on the pasta rather than a heavy sauce. Adjust the amount based on how dry or saucy you prefer your meal.

Lemon juice and zest add brightness to the dish, balancing the richness of the olive oil and shrimp. For the freshest flavor, use a microplane to zest the lemon just before juicing it. This keeps the oils in the zest intact, which are key for delivering that vibrant citrus punch. If you want to experiment, a splash of white wine can also add a delightful complexity to the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients for Shrimp and Garlic Pasta Toss

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Toss

Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with shrimp and garlic. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Mix in lemon juice and zest.

Garnish and Serve

Stir in the chopped parsley, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful shrimp and garlic pasta!

Garnish with extra parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine while cooking the shrimp for a more complex taste profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Shrimp and Garlic Pasta can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent meal prep option. You can cook the shrimp and garlic mixture, then store it separately from the pasta. Combine them just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Reheating pasta can sometimes lead to a tough texture. To avoid this, gently heat the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to reintroduce moisture. Cover the skillet to steam, which helps keep the pasta tender. Microwave reheating can work in a pinch but may not yield the same results.

Variations to Try

For those looking to add a little more flavor or variety, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Sauté these veggies alongside the garlic for a colorful and nutritious addition. Spinach wilts quickly, so add it just a minute before tossing in the pasta to preserve its bright color and nutrients.

If you're interested in a different protein, chicken or scallops can be excellent substitutions for shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, while scallops only need about 2-3 minutes per side until they are opaque and slightly caramelized.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used! Just thaw them beforehand and pat dry before cooking.

→ What other pasta shapes can I use?

You can substitute spaghetti with linguine, fettuccine, or even penne for a different texture.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or include a chopped fresh chili for extra heat.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers work well and add wonderful nutrition.