Quick and Easy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Description: Garlic shrimp pasta is a quick, easy-to-prepare, and delicious dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. This recipe makes use of fresh ingredients to create a simple yet satisfying meal. The cooking time required for this dish is approximately 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you need something tasty without the fuss.

Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces uncooked fettuccine pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta. Start by boiling water in a large pot and add salt to taste. Once it's brought to a boil, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta thoroughly after cooking but reserve about half a cup of the pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp. While the pasta is boiling, heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add two tablespoons of olive oil and let it get hot before adding in your minced garlic cloves. Sauté them until they start to turn golden brown but take care not to burn them as that can give an unpleasant taste to your dish.

Step 3: Add Shrimp. After the garlic has softened, toss in the shrimp and sauté for about two-three minutes or until they have turned pink. During this process, season with salt and Italian seasoning. Stir frequently so that the shrimp doesn’t stick to the pan. Set aside once done cooking but keep warm.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp. In your skillet, add in another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Toss in the cooked pasta along with any reserved pasta water until it's slightly moistened. Then mix everything together with your sautéed garlic shrimp. Allow for a minute or so to combine flavors fully before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve garnished plates of pasta topped with lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your freshly made Garlic Shrimp Pasta immediately while it’s still warm!

Tips for Success:

1. The secret to perfectly cooked shrimp is timing; overcooking can turn them tough, undercooked ones might be chewy.
2. For best results when making garlic shrimp pasta at home, use fresh shrimp and fresh garlic as they provide a much more vibrant flavor than their processed counterparts.
3. If you're looking to add a bit of extra zest to your dish, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes into the pan during the cooking process. This adds an exciting spice that pairs wonderfully with the other flavors in this recipe.

Conclusion: Garlic shrimp pasta is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or even add some vegetables like spinach or broccoli for additional nutrients and color variation. This recipe offers a perfect balance between simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal choice whether you're feeding yourself or planning a quick meal for the family.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful dinner that doesn’t require hours of preparation! It's sure to become one of your go-to meals when time is short but taste matters just as much.