The sizzle of garlic meeting warm olive oil always brings a sense of comfort to my kitchen. When I find myself craving something fresh yet indulgent, this Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Lemony White Wine Sauce quickly comes to mind. It’s a perfect marriage of tender shrimp, zesty lemon, and slightly tangy wine, all swirled together over perfectly cooked spaghetti. Whether it’s a bustling weeknight or an impromptu date night, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an effortless go-to for any occasion.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—feel free to put your spin on it by adding seasonal vegetables or experimenting with different proteins. Beyond its speed and adaptability, the vibrant flavors and simple ingredients create a meal that feels special, yet it’s approachable enough for any home cook. Ready to treat yourself to a delightful dining experience? Let’s dive into this Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe!
Why is this Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 30 minutes from kitchen to table, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic create a refreshing symphony that will delight your palate.
Customizable: Personalize it with seasonal veggies or your choice of protein—scallops, chicken, or plant-based options work beautifully!
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing meal that even picky eaters will adore, making it a staple in your dinner rotation.
Gourmet Appeal: Enjoy an elegant, restaurant-quality dish right in your home, impressing guests and elevating your dining experience.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Spaghetti Pasta – The traditional base of this dish; feel free to swap it with gluten-free or whole-grain pasta if desired.
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Opt for 16/20 count for ideal cooking; scallops are a delectable alternative if you prefer.
For the Flavor Base
• Olive Oil – Use extra virgin for a richer flavor and smooth sautéing.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic is preferred for aroma; powdered garlic can work if you’re in a hurry.
• Shallot – Offers subtle sweetness; yellow onion can be substituted if needed.
• Fresno Pepper – Adds a touch of mild heat; you can omit it entirely for a milder dish or replace it with red pepper flakes.
For the Sauce
• Lemon Juice – Fresh juice elevates flavors beautifully; bottled can suffice in a pinch.
• Dry White Wine – Brings acidity and depth; vegetable broth is a great substitute for non-alcoholic options.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and creaminess; for a dairy-free dish, plant-based butter works well.
For the Garnish
• Parsley (fresh) – Perfect for garnish and adds a pop of color; basil or chives can also be used for freshness.
• Lemon Zest – Intensifies lemon flavor; consider adding more for a brighter taste.
• Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese – Our choice for umami and creaminess; Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can cater to vegan preferences.
For Seasoning
• Coarse Salt and Freshly Cracked Pepper – Essential to enhance flavors; adjust according to your taste.
This Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is a celebration of comforting yet sophisticated flavors that’s sure to please any crowd!
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta
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Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, for about 8-10 minutes.
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Heat Oil: In a large sauté pan, warm 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. This creates a flavorful base for your garlic shrimp.
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Sear Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and sear for about 90 seconds until they turn just opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside to maintain their tenderness.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil, garlic, shallots, and Fresno pepper. Sauté for 45-60 seconds until lightly browned and fragrant.
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Deglaze: Squeeze in lemon juice, then pour in the dry white wine. Simmer until the mixture reduces to about ¾ cup, for around 2-3 minutes.
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Combine Sauce: Stir in 1 to 1½ cups of pasta water and add in the unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and blend with the sauce’s beautiful flavors.
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Add Pasta: Drain the spaghetti and add it to the pan. Toss until the pasta is well-coated with the luscious sauce and sprinkle in the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
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Fold Shrimp and Herbs: Gently fold in the shrimp and fresh parsley, warming everything through so the shrimp are heated but not overcooked.
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Serve: Plate your delightful pasta dish and garnish with additional parsley, lemon zest, and a splash of fresh lemon juice for zesty brightness.
Optional: Finish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish uniquely yours with these fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.
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Protein Swap: Enjoy pan-seared scallops or grilled chicken in place of shrimp for a different protein palette.
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Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for a colorful, nutritious addition that enhances flavor.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone to create a silky, indulgent sauce.
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Herbal Freshness: Replace parsley with fresh basil or dill for a unique flavor profile that compliments the shrimp beautifully.
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Extra Zing: Include capers or olives for a briny kick that pairs wonderfully with the lemony sauce.
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Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or sauté sliced jalapeño for an exciting heat level that spices up your meal.
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Citrus Variation: Experiment with lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a refreshing twist that brightens each bite.
Storage Tips for Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If needed, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers and ensure they are tightly sealed.
Reheating: Gently reheat the pasta in a saucepan with a splash of water or broth over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming overcooked.
Enjoy Warm: For best flavor and texture, serve the reheated Garlic Shrimp Pasta right after warming—it will taste just like freshly made!
Make Ahead Options
Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you spend more time enjoying and less time cooking! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the shrimp until just opaque (about 90 seconds), then cool and store them in an airtight container. For the sauce, sauté garlic, shallots, and Fresno pepper, then chill after deglazing with the wine, and refrigerate. When it’s time to eat, reheat the sauce over medium heat, then add the shrimp to warm through, and freshly cook the spaghetti. This way, you get a delicious, restaurant-quality Garlic Shrimp Pasta with minimal fuss, just as delightful as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Garlic Shrimp Pasta?
Pairing the perfect sides with your indulgent pasta dish will elevate your meal and create a delightful dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, crispy goodness complements the pasta and provides a satisfying crunch, perfect for soaking up that zesty sauce!
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Fresh Green Salad: A light, tangy salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate and balances the richness of the dish.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender yet crisp asparagus dressed in olive oil and lemon enhances the meal with a burst of fresh flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
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Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed with garlic, this nutrient-rich side adds a vibrant green element and a hint of earthiness, making it a healthy choice.
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Creamy Risotto: While it’s a heartier option, a light lemon risotto can echo the flavors in the pasta dish, delivering a comforting, creamy texture that complements your dinner beautifully.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, not only enhances the flavors of the garlic shrimp pasta but also provides a refined touch to your meal.
Each of these suggestions offers either a textural contrast or complementary flavors, creating a balanced and satisfying dining experience. Enjoy your meal!
Expert Tips for Garlic Shrimp Pasta
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Dry Your Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried before cooking to achieve a perfect sear and prevent steaming.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary; overcrowding the pan leads to uneven cooking and rubbery shrimp.
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Skip the Rinse: Do not rinse your pasta after cooking; the starch helps the sauce cling better to the noodles.
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Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook; they should curl into a loose “C” shape when done, indicating tenderness.
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Add Extra Veggies: Consider tossing in seasonal vegetables like spinach or peas for added flavor, texture, and nutrition in your Garlic Shrimp Pasta.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using peeled and deveined shrimp with a size of 16/20 count for optimal cooking. This size ensures they’re tender yet flavorful. If shrimp isn’t available, scallops are a delicious alternative and can be prepared similarly!
How do I store leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist and prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Can I freeze Garlic Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To do so, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers, ensuring they are tightly sealed. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove.
What should I do if my shrimp turns out rubbery?
To avoid rubbery shrimp, make sure to cook them just until they turn opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape. If you’ve already overcooked them, it’s essential to take a note for next time. Also, ensure your pan isn’t overcrowded, as this can result in uneven cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you have seafood allergies, you can easily adapt this Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe by substituting shrimp with chicken or a plant-based protein. Feel free to swap any dairy ingredients for non-dairy options to accommodate dietary preferences.
How do I know if my garlic is fresh?
Fresh garlic should be firm, with no soft spots or dark blemishes. Check for a strong, aromatic smell. If you see any sprouts, they can be removed, but the garlic is still usable. If you’re using powdered garlic for convenience, remember the flavor won’t be as robust compared to fresh.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe Ready in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- In a large sauté pan, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and sear for about 90 seconds until opaque. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add remaining olive oil, garlic, shallots, and Fresno pepper. Sauté for 45-60 seconds.
- Squeeze in lemon juice, pour in dry white wine, and simmer until reduced to about ¾ cup.
- Stir in 1 to 1½ cups of pasta water and add in unsalted butter.
- Drain spaghetti and add to the pan, toss until well-coated with sauce and sprinkle Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
- Fold in shrimp and parsley gently, warming everything through.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with parsley, lemon zest, and a splash of lemon juice.