Simple Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Serving Size: 4
Cooking Time: 25 minutes

If you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that will impress your family or friends at dinner time, then Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is the perfect recipe to try. This dish combines tender shrimp with rich garlic butter sauce over linguine pasta, creating a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone loves.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp of olive oil
• 1 tbsp of fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups (450g) linguine pasta

Instructions

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is essential for cooking the pasta al dente, which means it should be slightly firm to the bite. Cook your linguine according to package instructions until it reaches this desired texture.

While the pasta cooks, in a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic cloves until they become golden brown. Take care not to burn them as this can make the dish taste bitter.

Mix your shrimp with the garlic butter sauce. Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turns opaque but still remains firm when you gently press on it.

Combining Pasta and Shrimp

Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water to help amalgamate the ingredients if necessary. Add the cooked linguine directly into the skillet containing the garlic butter shrimp mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in a rich sauce.

Topping with Parsley

Once everything is well mixed and heated, garnish the dish with fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and aroma. The freshness of the chopped parsley adds a bright green color that enhances the overall appearance of your meal.

Optional Side Dish Suggestions

• Garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up every last drop of garlic butter sauce
• A mixed green salad with balsamic dressing as a light alternative for those looking to balance out their meal

Why Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

This dish is beloved because it showcases the versatility and taste of shrimp combined with garlic butter sauce. It’s simple yet sophisticated, making it suitable for casual weeknight dinners as well as special occasions. The combination of flavors can be adjusted to suit individual tastes. For instance, if you prefer a little more heat in your meal, consider adding some red pepper flakes or crushed chili peppers when sautéing the garlic.

Health Considerations

This recipe is rich in protein due to the inclusion of shrimp and includes essential nutrients from olive oil. It's also relatively low in carbohydrates if you choose whole-grain linguine, thus it can be a part of a balanced diet plan. However, if you're counting calories or watching your fat intake, consider using less olive oil while cooking.

Cooking Tips for Success

1. Ensure the shrimp is fully cooked but not overcooked to maintain their texture and flavor.
2. The garlic should be golden brown, not burned. It adds a depth of flavor that elevates this dish.
3. The pasta should be al dente for maximum satisfaction. If you find your pasta cooking too quickly or slowly, you may need to adjust the timing slightly based on your pot’s size and shape.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a versatile recipe that can easily be customized according to one's taste buds. Whether you're looking for an elegant dinner party dish or a comforting family meal, this simple yet delicious recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Note: Always make sure your ingredients are fresh and of high quality for best results. Fresh shrimp, good olive oil, and fresh herbs all contribute to making this dish as tasty as possible. Enjoy your cooking!