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; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Collection

A quick and delicious dish that brings the taste of the sea to your table in just 15 minutes!

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:40:34.496Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a perfect weeknight meal. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and pasta makes for a satisfying dish that's full of flavor and can be whipped up in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Garlic and shrimp create a delightful aroma and flavor
Light yet filling, ideal for any occasion

      

The Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When you're short on time but still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your go-to solution. It requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without the hours of preparation.

This recipe is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, or even swapping out the shrimp for chicken or tofu to suit your dietary preferences. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, pay attention to their color and texture. Shrimp should turn a lovely pink and opaque when done. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on the clock and remove them from heat as soon as they’re ready.

Using high-quality, fresh ingredients will elevate your dish. Opt for fresh shrimp when possible, and don’t skimp on the garlic and olive oil, as they are the stars of this recipe. A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors and adds a delightful zing.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Garlic Shrimp Pasta with a side salad or garlic bread. A light, crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. Garlic bread adds a comforting touch and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Don’t forget to pair your dish with a refreshing beverage. A chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the flavors of garlic and shrimp, enhancing your dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea would also be delightful.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Pasta

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

Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Shrimp

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

Add the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, drizzle with lemon juice, and toss to combine. Cook for another minute to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This dish is best served hot and can be paired with a side salad or garlic bread.

Nutritional Benefits

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein, providing essential amino acids that support muscle growth and repair. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits.

The addition of garlic not only enhances the dish's flavor but also offers numerous health benefits. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can boost your immune system. The olive oil in this recipe provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water or broth to help steam the pasta and keep it moist.

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can repurpose leftovers into a delicious lunch. Toss the pasta with some fresh greens and a drizzle of olive oil for a quick and satisfying salad. Alternatively, you can serve it cold as a pasta salad with additional vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What other pasta can I use?

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

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and combine with the pasta right before serving.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili peppers to the dish.