Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Butter

• Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Butter

Ingredients

Seafood:

• 450 g medium shrimp, deveined and tails removed

Pasta:

• 450 g spaghetti, uncooked

Aromatics:

• 6–8 garlic cloves, finely minced

Fats & Seasonings:

• 3–4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Prepare the shrimp:
   Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
3. Cook the shrimp:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter with 2 tbsp olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the garlic butter sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. If using, add chili flakes here.
5. Combine pasta and sauce:
   Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic butter. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir in the shrimp and drizzle with lemon juice if desired.
6. Serve:
   Plate the pasta, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and extra black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the garlicky butter sauce.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic.
• Garnish with grated Parmesan if you like a cheesy twist.