15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Fast Inspiration

A quick and delicious meal that brings the flavors of the sea to your dinner table in just 15 minutes.

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:43:34.447Z

This 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. With its vibrant flavors and quick preparation, it's bound to become a family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Garlic and shrimp create a deliciously aromatic dish
Fresh ingredients make it a healthy choice
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables

Quick and Flavorful Dinner Solution

When time is of the essence, yet you still want to enjoy a homemade meal, this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your go-to option. With the ability to whip up a delicious dish in just a quarter of an hour, you can easily impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is designed for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet effortless.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. By combining a few fresh ingredients—like shrimp, garlic, and spaghetti—you can create a meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The aromatic garlic pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp, making each bite a delightful experience.

Healthy Ingredients for a Balanced Meal

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is not just quick; it's also a healthy option for dinner. Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. Paired with whole-grain spaghetti and fresh parsley, this dish provides a well-rounded meal that fuels your body without weighing you down.

Choosing fresh ingredients elevates the quality of your meal. The use of minced garlic not only enhances flavor but also offers numerous health benefits, such as boosting your immune system and improving heart health. Plus, you can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, making it versatile and even more nutritious.

Perfect for Customization

One of the best aspects of this 15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to add in seasonal veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost and vibrant color. The simplicity of the base recipe allows for a wide range of adaptations, ensuring that you can make it your own.

Whether you prefer a bit more spice or a touch of creaminess, this dish is a blank canvas. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for freshness or a sprinkle of cheese for richness. The quick cooking method means you can experiment without worrying about extending your prep time.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the shrimp and red pepper flakes. Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta before serving.

Tips for Perfecting Your Dish

To ensure your pasta cooks perfectly, always salt your boiling water generously. This not only enhances the flavor of the pasta but also helps it to cook more evenly. Follow the package instructions for timing, but remember that al dente pasta will hold up better when tossed with the shrimp and garlic.

When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to let it brown too much, as this can lead to a bitter taste. A gentle heat is key to releasing its aromatic oils while maintaining its delicate flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated dining experience, consider serving your Garlic Shrimp Pasta with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette can complement the flavors of the dish beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, can enhance your meal. The wine’s acidity and fruity notes will balance out the garlic and shrimp, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store your Garlic Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Avoid freezing this dish, as the texture of shrimp can change when thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh for the best taste and texture, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick dinners throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for spaghetti?

You can use any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.

→ Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini would be great additions.