Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish

Name: Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Meal Recipes

I love whipping up this Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish when I need a quick yet delicious meal. It’s incredible how simple ingredients like shrimp, pasta, and garlic can come together to create something so flavorful. In just 20 minutes, I can transform ordinary items into an extraordinary dinner. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when I have friends over and want to impress them without spending all day in the kitchen!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:30:27.260Z

When I first made this Quick Shrimp Pasta Dish, I was amazed at how quickly the flavors meld together. The sautéed garlic and shrimp create a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen. I learned that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens everything up and perfectly complements the richness of the shrimp.

To save even more time, I often prep my ingredients ahead of time. Having everything ready allows me to focus on the cooking process, and I can have this dish on the table in no time. It’s become a staple in my home, and I think you’ll love it too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy nights
Flavor-packed with garlic and a hint of lemon
Comforting yet light, ideal for any occasion

Perfecting Your Shrimp Cooking Technique

When cooking shrimp, timing is critical to avoid a rubbery texture. In this recipe, you’ll want to heat the olive oil over medium heat and watch the shrimp closely; they should start to turn pink and opaque in just about 3–4 minutes. If you're cooking on high heat, reduce the time to avoid overcooking. The shrimp is perfect when just cooked through, so remove them from the pan promptly to preserve their tenderness.

I recommend using a large skillet for even cooking. This way, the shrimp get enough space to sear properly rather than steam. If the skillet is too crowded, you'll miss out on that beautiful golden edge that adds flavor. A non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan works best, providing a great surface for browning without sticking.

Ingredient Insights for Flavor Depth

The fresh parsley in this dish isn’t just a garnish; it plays an essential role in brightening the meal's flavors. Chopping it finely allows the oils to release, infusing your pasta with a fresh earthy taste that balances the richness of the shrimp and garlic. Don't shy away from adding extra parsley if you love that fresh flavor—a generous handful can elevate the dish even more.

Lemon juice not only adds acidity but also can help tenderize the shrimp slightly. When adding it to the skillet, make sure to do so off the heat; this will prevent it from cooking off the bright flavor. If you want a zesty kick, consider adding some lemon zest along with the juice, enhancing the citrus note without making it overly sour.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Quick Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, for best results, consume it fresh to enjoy the shrimp's juicy texture. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to prevent the pasta from becoming dry and mushy.

For serving, I love plating this dish with a sprinkle of extra parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side—this not only looks appealing but also allows guests to customize the lemony flavor to their liking. Serve it alongside a light arugula salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that doesn’t weigh you down.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Quick Shrimp Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 3–4 minutes.

Combine and Finish

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine, then add lemon juice and parsley. Mix well and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable depending on your needs. If you want to impress a larger group, simply double the ingredients while maintaining the same cooking method. Ensure to use a larger skillet for even cooking or cook in batches to keep the shrimp from overcrowding the pan.

Conversely, if you’re cooking just for one or two, halving the ingredient amounts works perfectly. You can prepare the full amount of garlic and parsley, but save some shrimp for your next meal, allowing flavors to shine without excessive waste.

Possible Variations to Explore

For a twist on flavors, consider swapping out shrimp with scallops or even chicken – just be mindful of differing cook times. While shrimp typically cooks quickly, chicken needs to reach an internal temperature of 165°F, which may take an additional 5-7 minutes. Adjust the garlic quantity as well; scallops are milder, so a bit more could be beneficial.

You can also customize this dish with seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus or cherry tomatoes. Sauté them briefly in the same skillet after the shrimp, creating a colorful one-pan meal that adds nutrition and visual appeal to your dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What kind of pasta should I use?

While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta you prefer such as linguine or penne.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for some heat.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and garlic mixture in advance and heat it up when ready to serve.