Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of garlic and butter with tender shrimp and fettuccine. This quick recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, showcasing bright flavors and comforting textures. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that will impress family and friends alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and butter creates a savory sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute different types of pasta to customize the dish.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, this meal looks as good as it tastes, making it suitable for entertaining guests.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from shrimp and healthy fats from butter, this dish offers a balanced option for dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Colander
• Measuring cups
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling pasta, allowing ample space for it to cook evenly without sticking.
• Frying pan: Ideal for sautéing garlic and cooking shrimp quickly while maintaining their juiciness.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick chopping of garlic and any additional ingredients you may want to include.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz Fettuccine

For the Shrimp Mixture

• 1 lb Shrimp
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 4 tbsp Butter
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
• Juice and zest of ¼ Lemon
• 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
• Sea Salt
• Black Pepper

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
3. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. In a frying pan over medium heat, add cooking oil.
2. Mince the garlic cloves and sauté them until fragrant (about 2 minutes).

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Add butter to the frying pan with garlic.
2. Once melted, stir in the shrimp.
3. Cook until shrimp are opaque and slightly pink (approximately 4-6 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Mix in lemon juice, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper into the shrimp mixture until well combined.

Step 5: Combine with Fettuccine

1. Add the cooked fettuccine to the shrimp mixture.
2. Stir well to coat all pasta evenly with the sauce.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta with fresh parsley before serving.
2. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Serving Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and presentation. Here are some creative ideas to make your dish even more delightful.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh taste.
• Basil Leaves: Offers a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the garlic nicely.

Citrus Zest

• Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside for an extra citrusy kick when squeezed over the pasta.
• Lime Zest: A unique twist that enhances the overall brightness of the dish.

Extra Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle more on top right before serving for an added savory touch.
• Feta Crumbles: Add a tangy flavor contrast that pairs well with shrimp.

Vegetables

• Sautéed Spinach: Mix in for added nutrition and vibrant color.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halve and toss in for sweetness and juiciness.

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How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

To achieve the ultimate Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, consider these tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and garlic will elevate the flavors significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook until they are just opaque; this keeps them tender.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go to get the salt and pepper just right for your palate.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save a bit of cooking water to help adjust sauce consistency if needed.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it hot right after cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the garlicky flavors of the pasta. Toast slices with butter and minced garlic.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a refreshing crunch. Top with croutons for texture.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, providing a vibrant green contrast. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned with salt and pepper, roasted asparagus offers a delightful earthy flavor.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light salad option that balances richness.
6. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture, while its tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—overcooking can make them rubbery. Cook until just opaque and pink.
• Not salting the pasta water: Salting enhances flavor. Always add salt to boiling water before cooking pasta for the best taste.
• Using pre-minced garlic: Fresh garlic offers a deeper flavor. Mince your own garlic for a more aromatic dish.
• Skipping the zest: Lemon zest adds brightness. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the overall taste of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta.
• Neglecting to coat the pasta properly: Ensure all fettuccine is mixed well with the sauce. This ensures every bite is flavorful.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to prevent drying out while reheating.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:

How can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta gluten-free?

You can substitute regular fettuccine with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

What vegetables can I add to Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

For added nutrition, consider incorporating spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers into your dish.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

Is this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s quick to prepare and stores well in the fridge or freezer.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for freshness.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal filled with rich flavors!

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Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

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• Author: Dina
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick and comforting dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender fettuccine, all enveloped in a rich garlic-butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is both simple and impressive.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz Fettuccine
• 1 lb Shrimp
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 4 tbsp Butter
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
• Juice and zest of ¼ Lemon
• 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
• Sea Salt
• Black Pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a frying pan over medium heat, add cooking oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
3. Add butter to the pan; once melted, stir in shrimp. Cook until shrimp are opaque and slightly pink (approximately 4-6 minutes).
4. Mix in lemon juice, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper into the shrimp mixture until well combined.
5. Add cooked fettuccine to the shrimp mixture, stirring well to coat.
6. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 220mg