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This budget garlic shrimp spaghetti has rescued me on countless weeknights when I want something both impressive and affordable. The rich aroma of sautéed garlic and the briny burst of shrimp transform simple pantry staples into dinner that feels truly special.
This is the dish I reach for when company drops in unexpectedly. The smell draws everyone to the kitchen and there are rarely leftovers.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti: provides a satisfying and familiar base look for whole wheat or bronze-cut pasta for extra texture
- Frozen shrimp: offer budget friendly protein and cook in minutes choose deveined shrimp for ease
- Garlic: brings essential boldness buy heavy firm heads for fresher cloves
- Olive oil: is the main fat source and adds Mediterranean flavor go for extra virgin if possible
- Red pepper flakes: add a gentle background warmth buy from a new jar for best aroma
- Fresh parsley: provides color and herbal lift flat leaf parsley is most vibrant
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with generously salted water bring it to a rolling boil then add spaghetti and cook until al dente stirring occasionally this usually takes about ten minutes drain but reserve a half cup of pasta water for tossing
- Infuse the Oil with Garlic:
- Place olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat add chopped garlic and stir often let the garlic slowly turn golden and fragrant for three to four minutes being careful to avoid burning
- Cook the Shrimp and Seasonings:
- Add the frozen shrimp directly to the garlic oil if they are large cut them in half scatter in red pepper flakes cook while stirring often just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque about four minutes
- Combine Pasta and Finish:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with half the reserved pasta water toss everything vigorously for two minutes until the strands are coated absorb the sauce and add extra water as needed fold in chopped fresh parsley right before serving
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Frozen shrimp are truly the hero ingredient here ever since first using them I have kept a bag in my freezer for last minute meal magic and my family now asks for this quick dish every week
Storage tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days the pasta will absorb some sauce so refresh with a splash of hot water or extra olive oil when reheating
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have shrimp try using firm white fish zest up the aromatics with a squeeze of lemon at the end or stir in a handful of thawed peas for sweetness
Serving suggestions
Bring this to the table with lemon wedges for a bright finish and a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a fresh contrast sometimes I top it with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch
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Cultural historical context
Garlic and shrimp pasta dishes trace their roots to Mediterranean coastal countries like Italy and Spain where simple seafood pasta is an everyday staple their tradition inspires this accessible weeknight version
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh shrimp can be used. Just peel and devein before adding to the skillet. Adjust cooking time as fresh shrimp cooks quickly.
- → How do I prevent shrimp from turning rubbery?
Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque. Overcooking leads to a tough texture, so monitor closely while sautéing.
- → Which pasta shapes work best with this dish?
Spaghetti is classic, but linguine or fettuccine also pair well with garlic and shrimp. Use what you have on hand.
- → Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute traditional spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
- → What herbs complement garlic shrimp spaghetti?
Fresh parsley adds brightness, but basil or chives offer variation and extra flavor.
- → Is this a suitable make-ahead dish?
For best taste and texture, prepare just before serving. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.